I am one of those odd freaks of nature who thoroughly enjoys organizing and cleaning. So much so, that I do it habitually, before tasks accumulate to a daunting level. That being said, there are some tasks that I only do once or twice a year, usually with the change in seasons (we all know Montreal has only two main seasons: winter and not-winter).
There is something wonderfully liberating and uplifting about putting some order to your world.
There is something wonderfully liberating and uplifting about putting some order to your world.
If you absolutely dread it, here are 6 straightforward strategies to focus on this spring. They may be simple, but they will have a positive impact on your space and your own energy.
1. Do a thorough dusting and vacuum
Follow your normal dusting and vacuum routine but spend more time being extra meticulous. Get to baseboards, inside cupboards, tops of furniture, door frames, ceiling fans, window sills, under appliances, inside frequently used drawers.
2. Tackle the wardrobe
To gear up for a new season (and new fashion trends), force yourself to mercilessly throw or give away old shoes, boots and clothes. Be extra strict with that elusive "clothes-I-might-wear-someday-once-I-get-through-wearing-all-the-other-things-I-like-better-and-all-the-new-things-I’ll-inevitably-buy-or-maybe-I-should-keep-this-just-for-painting" category. You’ll feel hugely liberated when that is done
(Confession: it’s the task I personally find most daunting).
(Confession: it’s the task I personally find most daunting).
3. Clean the windows to let more natural light in
Cleaning the windows and window-tracks is one of the things I am most eager to do once the snow finally melts. Wait for a cloudy day so that the glass cleaner doesn’t evaporate and leave streaks on your windows. It’s incredible how the light in your place changes once this is done.
4. Sort through the area that serves as your dumping ground
Everyone, even the most organized folks, have a spot that is notoriously known for being their temporary dumping ground. Dedicating some time to decluttering that space provides great relief.
5. Pick one room and practice leaving no trace
As someone who is sensitive and highly responsive to how my space feels, I try to practice this on a daily basis. The idea is to leave a room in a state where it doesn’t look like you’ve been there (and shoving everything into the cupboards or under the bed doesn’t count!). It adds effort to your daily routine but the advantage is that it doesn’t feel as much like a massive “spring cleaning” if you do it little by little. It may even turn into a happy habit!
6. Add a new piece of decor
To celebrate the beginning of spring and summer, adding something fresh to your decor serves as a wonderful pick-me-up. Whether it’s a new rug or pillow, coffee table or art on furniture or on your walls, your eyes will be drawn to your new addition and it will make you feel good.
As a general tip, start with the smallest task and give yourself 20 minutes to get into it. It takes the pressure off of having to devote a whole day to spring cleaning.
Have a crucial tip to add? I’d LOVE to hear it! Leave a comment below.
Have a crucial tip to add? I’d LOVE to hear it! Leave a comment below.
Happy Spring!
From my heart to yours.
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