How to Clean When You're Overwhelmed: Simple Strategies for a Tidy Home!
I know how it feels to feel so overwhelmed with keeping up with housework when your a mum and have a million and one things to do in a day with not enough hours to get it all done in! But Keeping a clean and organised home is essential for our well-being and productivity, but sometimes, life gets busy, and the task of cleaning can feel overwhelming ( I know this feeling too well). Whether you're juggling work, family responsibilities, or personal challenges, it's normal to feel a bit daunted by the idea of cleaning. However, with the right approach and mindset, you can tackle cleaning even when you're overwhelmed. In this blog post, I will share some practical strategies that help me when I feel so overwhelmed with life to help you get started and maintain a tidy home, even during the most hectic times.
1. Start Small, But Start
When you're overwhelmed, the thought of cleaning the entire house can be paralysing. Instead of trying to do it all at once, start with a small task. Choose one area or one specific cleaning task, like organising a messy desk or decluttering a single drawer. Starting small will not only give you a sense of accomplishment but also help you gain momentum to tackle more significant cleaning tasks later.
2. Prioritize and Make a Cleaning Plan
Create a list of cleaning tasks that need to be done and prioritise them based on urgency and importance. Focus on the essentials first, such as washing dishes, cleaning the bathroom, and making the bed. If you have limited time or energy, knowing what needs immediate attention can prevent you from feeling overwhelmed by trying to do it all.
Additionally, consider making a cleaning plan or creating a cleaning schedule. Assign specific cleaning tasks to each day or divide them throughout the week. This way, you won't have to face the overwhelming prospect of cleaning the entire house all at once.
3. Set a Timer and Take Breaks
Setting a timer can be a game-changer when you're feeling overwhelmed. Commit to cleaning for a short, manageable period, like 15 or 30 minutes, and then take a break. Knowing that there's an endpoint in sight can help you stay focused and prevent burnout. During your breaks, do something enjoyable to recharge, like having a cup of tea, going for a walk, or reading a few pages of a book.
4. Divide Tasks into Manageable Steps
Large cleaning tasks can seem daunting, but breaking them down into smaller steps can make them more manageable. For example, if you need to clean the kitchen, divide the task into steps such as clearing the countertops, wiping down surfaces, cleaning the sink, and so on. Tackle one step at a time, and you'll find that the task becomes less overwhelming.
5. Enlist Help and Delegate
Cleaning doesn't have to be a solo endeavor. Don't hesitate to ask for help from family members, roommates, or friends. You can delegate specific tasks to each person, making the workload lighter for everyone. Team up and clean together - not only will the work get done faster, but it can also be a fun bonding experience.
6. Create a Cleaning Playlist or Listen to a Podcast
Cleaning can be more enjoyable with some background entertainment. Create a cleaning playlist with your favourite upbeat songs or listen to a podcast that interests you. The music or podcast will keep you engaged and help pass the time while you clean.
7. Use Cleaning Products You Love
Sometimes, the cleaning process can be more enjoyable if you use cleaning products with pleasant scents or that are easier and more enjoyable to use. Invest in some cleaning supplies that you genuinely like using - it might just make the process feel less burdensome.
8. Celebrate Progress and Be Kind to Yourself
Remember that cleaning doesn't have to be perfect, and progress is still progress, no matter how small. Celebrate your achievements and give yourself credit for what you've accomplished, even if you haven't completed everything on your list. Be kind to yourself and acknowledge that feeling overwhelmed is normal - take it one step at a time.
Cleaning when you're overwhelmed doesn't have to be an insurmountable task. By starting small, prioritising tasks, and breaking them down into manageable steps, you can make cleaning more manageable and less intimidating. Remember, it's okay to ask for help, take breaks, and reward yourself for your efforts. With these strategies and a positive mindset, you can maintain a clean and tidy home, even during the busiest times in life.
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