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Q: I'm one who needs lots of H.E.L.P. (Home Executive Lessons and Principles)! I've read books and listened to lectures about home management and really appreciate all I've learned, but I'm still at ground zero. Where do I start? What should I do first?
Daryl: I can relate fully to your question. A number of years ago when personal computers became popular, those who instinctively knew how to make them work were more than willing to instruct those of us who were somewhat technologically impaired in their use. The qualified ones were quick to point out the remarkable capacity of computers and to cite the numerous ways in which they could make life better. We learners were duly impressed as we were taught the various functions. There was just one problem: Where do I start? How do I turn the thing on?
May I suggest a two-step program that might give you some clues for getting started in organizing your home and making it work best for you and your family. But before doing that, you may want to give yourself a quick boost by doing two simple chores. Sweep the porch or entry way and wash the window over the kitchen sink. If there isn't one, shine the sink. With the lift the completion of these two small tasks could provide, you'll hopefully be energized enough to proceed as follows:
- First, attack the clutter. To overcome the seeming endlessness and even hopelessness of de-junking an area, it can be helpful to place a time or number limit on your efforts. For instance, each time you work allow yourself forty-five minutes (or some such block of time) to "hit it hard" and make a real difference in one area of your home. Or challenge yourself by putting twenty-five items (or whatever number appeals to you) in sorting piles (throw away, put away, or give away) and then going to work. This approach, repeated every day, can work wonders in months, even weeks. (For further information on this, see my article Order: A Heaven-made Law)
- Second, do today's work today. Hang up clothes, make beds, spot clean bathrooms, serve meals and clean up the kitchen, and keep the laundry current. Doing just this much will put you well on the road to successful home management. (See Do Today's Work Today)
Summed up, do some quick, simple tasks that bring about immediate results; start a long-range program for clearing your house of any clutter, and finally, get a good daily system going and stick to it. You'll be amazed by what a great start this will be for you. Good luck!
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