Although I’m a firm believer that organizing and cleaning are two different things, I’m also a believer that cleaning helps any organizing project sparkle. In fact, one of the steps in the simplify 101 organizing process is to clean the space being organized. If you’re like me though, cleaning isn’t the fun stuff. Bring me a binder or a bin and you’ve got yourself a deal. A broom and a dust pan? Now that’s another story.
If you find yourself with a whole lotta’ dust and whole *little* enthusiasm for cleaning (like an organizer you know) read on! We’ll get you motivated to clean, clean, clean in no time! Here’s how.
Focus on the results.
Like with any good organizing project, if you’re having trouble getting started, focus on the end result. Think about how good it will feel when you’ve got that cleaning project under your belt. Really dwell on that sense of accomplishment. It works! And here’s how I know.
One spring weekend not so long ago, Jay and I embarked on a cleaning project we had put off for a really, really (really) long time: windows. We washed the windows inside and out, removed and cleaned the screens, and scrubbed the grime off the window sills. Fun? Not so much. Rewarding? Beyond words. I can’t even tell you how good it felt to see those windows sparkle!
It was this feeling of accomplishment (and yes, when you’re doing something you don’t love to do, getting it done is a huge accomplishment!) that got us started and kept us going through the hours and hours of scrubbing and wiping and cleaning. So, if you’re having trouble mustering up the motivation to do some deep cleaning, just think about how great it’s going to feel when you can check it off your list!
Decide where to start.
Take a quick tour of your home and make a list of possible spring cleaning projects. Here are some ideas …
- Wash windows
- Wash screens
- Wash window sills
- Clean light fixtures
- Wipe down cabinet fronts (and tops)
- Clean range top or burners on your stove
- Sweep or vacuum behind the refrigerator or washer and dryer
- Remove lint from dryer hose
- Sweep the basement or garage
- Shampoo carpets
- Check your smoke detector batteries
- Paint the _______. (Fill in the blank. My list would say “hallway.”)
To create your list, simply walk around your home looking high and low for opportunities to create some sparkle. Then, pick one project that will have a big impact on your space and more importantly, your spirits.
Gather your supplies.
Gather the tools and supplies you’ll need to tackle your cleaning project and corral them into a caddie or bucket. This will make it easy to move from room to room, if your project requires it.
Stay focused on the task at hand.
As with any other project, staying focused on your spring cleaning project will help you get it checked off your list faster. And while this isn’t always easy to do … you’ll be glad you did. During our window cleaning weekend, there was laundry to do and when I pulled out the power washer, I had a burning desire to spray off my car (a cleaning task I actually think is fun!) But, it was important to stay focused on windows, and see the task through to completion. This meant every screen back on every window and cleaning supplies put away. For your cleaning tasks, define what done is, and then focus, focus, focus until you’ve reached done!
Enjoy the results.
When you’re finished, sit back and relish in the fruits of your labor. It feels good to create positive change in your environment. Doesn’t it? Drink it in. And enjoy the results.
With many projects, getting started can be the hardest part! But, by focusing on the end results and then really drinking in your success, you will fuel your enthusiasm to take on the next spring cleaning project on your list…next weekend!
