Firstly, I am by no means an amazing cleaner, organizer, or always love doing chores. But I love a clean house, getting chores done, and having organized spaces, to be able to enjoy and rest in my home!
So, I wanted to share a few things that help me get over the “I don’t wanna zone”. As a homemaker, I believe my job is to keep a tidy home. And I LOVE our home. For me, I also love the satisfaction it brings when I’ve accomplished any house goals. So here are a few tips/tricks that give me motivation and discipline to help me keep my home clean.
Lists
Oh, sister, this mom would be lost without lists. Seriously. I have at least 1-2 lists going every day and for me, this is not only how I get stuff done but also don’t forget items too. (Love this collection of lists!)
Writing down what chores or tasks I need to accomplish is how I start with what I have to do for the day.
From making the bed to starting a load of wash, write it down. Because the best part is when you get to cross that off your list! I feel accomplished and it helps minimize what you have left to do. The other thing I also do is to write down things that I’ve done that I hadn’t put on my list. Because guess what? That’s an accomplishment too. Now, this may sound overwhelming, and honestly, someday it is. So one thing that I do try to do is have a few either “short day lists” or “no lists” days. All work and no play especially for a wife or mom can be stressful and mundane. So, have those days where you can relax, do some self-care, and enjoy family and the gift of time!
Timers
One chore in particular that I don’t love is dishes. No matter how I’ve tried I just can’t seem to enjoy them. So, one thing I’ll do that my mom taught me is to set a timer! Set a practical fast pace time and see if you can beat it. It’s a fun little incentive and you get the job done faster!
Audio
I love a good song or story while I work. It no helps pass the time but keeps my mind focused and at ease. Some of my favorites include Mandisa, Hillsong Praise, and Adventures In Odyssey. Or, if I’m playing catch-up on folding/ironing I’ll put a movie on in the background. I just have to make sure I’m still working, not just watching!
Reward Yourself
After I’ve checked off the last or item on my list I give myself a little reward. Sometimes it’s a sweet treat or a cup of coffee, and other times it’s a little quiet time and fun project or screen time. Remind yourself it’s OKAY to rest when your work is done!
Ecclesiastes 5:18 ESV
18 This is what I have observed to be good: that it is appropriate for a person to eat, to drink and to find satisfaction in their toilsome labor under the sun during the few days of life God has given them—for this is their lot.
I love my home and want to be a good steward of it. Doing my best to have it ready to be hospitable and also a place my husband is happy to come home to after a long day of work brings me joy. I hope these tips help you in some way as they have me! What helps you do your tasks around the house? I’d love to hear!
Xoxo, Shantel

3 responses to “House Chores; Tips, and Tricks to Tackle Them”
I’m seriously impressed that you can put a movie on while ironing… I would pay too much attention to the movie 😂
Haha! Well, growing up we ONLY got to watch something if we actually got it done. Thankfully that stuck with me. There are definitely some days I don’t want to tho.😩😂
That’s very fortunate – we were the same but, I’m just easily distracted 😅