Spring has sprung, and even if we're still having our fair share of chilly days (and March snowstorms), hints of the perfect days to come are everywhere. What that means? It's time for spring cleaning.
While it would be great if the arrival of spring brought on an energizing wave of motivation—and for some of us it does—frustratingly, that's not the case for everyone.
If you're staring at piles of clutter, overstuffed closets and the inside of an oven that desperately needs cleaning without any motivation to actually get started, you're not alone. And, all hope is not lost! We've got you covered with these simple tips that will help you get motivated to clean.
How to Get Motivated to Clean
Here are 7 ways to motivate yourself to declutter, organize, and clean when everything is a mess.
1. Remind yourself of why you want to do it
Finding your "why" is crucial to getting motivated to do just about anything, from losing weight to applying for a new job. Getting motivated to declutter, organize, and deep clean is no exception!
If you're struggling to find the motivation to tackle that closet that has 10 shirts you definitely never wear in it, remind yourself why you want to clear out that closet: So you can live a calmer life, make room for new clothes you actually love, make getting dressed easier, the list goes on.
2. Give yourself a cleaning-related reward
Looking for a light at the end of the spring cleaning tunnel? That's easy enough—give yourself a reward or something to look forward to. Maybe there's a pair of shoes you've been eyeing for a while, but you haven't bought them because they're on the higher end of your price range.
With a cleaned out closet, you'll actually have space for them, and be able to see them more easily so you wear them more. If a shopping-related reward feels like it defeats the purpose of your declutter, go out and get yourself an ice cream cone. There's nothing quite like it.
3. Remind yourself that you don't have to do everything at once
As the saying goes, slow and steady wins the race. Seasons are three months long, so you don't have to do all your spring cleaning in one weekend. Try taking two hours every weekend for the next four weekends, and devote that to clutter-clearing and cleaning. It will make the whole cleaning process feel a lot less daunting, and you'll still have time and energy for the rest of your life.
4. Find somewhere to resell the items you don't want anymore
Wouldn't it be great if you could get paid to declutter and organize your house? Well, you can: Take advantage of resale sites like Poshmark, ThredUP, or even eBay. You might be surprised by how much you can make on clothes, shoes, or bags you don't want anymore, as long as they're in decent condition.
You can also donate anything you can't sell (or if you don't feel like going through the hassle of selling your clothes, that makes sense too). When you donate your old things, it can be helpful to think of them getting a new home with someone who really appreciates them.
5. Think about how having a clean living space will make your life easier
Spring cleaning might not be making your life easier now, but in the long run, it definitely will. Having a clean, organized home will make it easier to move around your space, and clear mental clutter, making it easier to achieve your goals. Plus, it's a lot easier to practice self-care when you're in a calm, peaceful space.
6. Enlist the help of others
Spring cleaning doesn't have to be a solo act! The more people you have on board, the better. If you have a partner, get them involved. If you have kids, there's no question that they contribute to the clutter, so get them involved, too. Or, invite a friend over and have them help you—offer to make them dinner afterward as a thank you!
7. Just start
Sometimes, the motivation won't come, and you just have to start. And once you start, you'll realize that deep-cleaning your oven and Windexing your windows isn't so bad after all. So clear an afternoon, put on some music or your favorite podcast, and get going.
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