How to Motivate Yourself to Organize Your House

An organized home can create a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere.

For some homeowners, decoration and organization come naturally, while others face a constant battle with clutter and mess. When facing organizing dilemmas, the hardest part is often finding the motivation to get started. There are so many other easier distractions to fall into that it may seem as though you've been putting off that organizing project for years. There are a number of steps that you can take to motivate your organizing efforts and increase your chances of success.

Things You'll Need

• Pen and paper or computer
• Clock or timer
• Music player

Instructions

1. Create a list of the areas of your home that need to be organized, as well as the objectives for each area. Be specific with your objectives. "Clean up" is a subjective goal that can be defined in a number of ways, but "stack plastic containers, throw out old silverware, soak pans" are specific goals that you can clearly define when they are finished.

2. Write a second list of advantages that you will gain by completing your objectives. Perhaps you will have room for the new appliance you need, or will save time when packing lunches for the children. Knowing what you will gain by accomplishing your goals can provide motivation for your efforts.

3. Set up a rewards system for your organizing efforts. Plan to organize for two to three hours, and set a lunch date or watch one of your favorite television shows. This will ensure that you are not overwhelmed by trying to tackle too much at once, and also will provide you with a positive reinforcement for your efforts.

4. Create a final celebration for your organizing efforts. Invite friends and family for a dinner party or game night a few weeks or months in advance, and know that you must have your organizing done by that point. The desire to impress the important people in your life will provide motivation, and the compliments you receive from your guests will be the ultimate reward.

5. Set a positive atmosphere for organizing. Open a window to let air in, keeping the room feeling fresh. Play your favorite upbeat music and don't be afraid to sing along. Wear comfortable clothing that makes it easy to move. The easier the job is, the more you will want to do it.

6. Tackle your biggest task first. Kristi Patrice Carter, author of motivational book "Superwoman Doesn't Live Here Anymore," advises that once you get that first big task complete, the rest of the chores will seem easy and fun by comparison.

7. Mark off your objectives as soon as you accomplish them. The physical reward of crossing out one of your goals can increase your motivation to keep going.

Tips & Warnings

• If organization gets too hard, don't be afraid to ask for help. Consult a friend or even a professional organizer for assistance to get you going.

References

• MSN Lifestyle: 8 Ways to Motivate Yourself to Clean
• Daily House Cleaning Schedule: How to Motivate Yourself to Clean Up