Life can be chaotic, between work and family it’s super easy to fall behind on housework. When your space is cluttered you’re more likely to become frustrated and anxious. I want to share with you my top 5 tips on how to incorporate housework into your hectic weekly schedule, without becoming overwhelmed.

1. Having Daily Tasks

I say “tasks” because it sounds a little more enticing than “chores”, sometimes it’s the small things that change the mindset. I like to have three tasks that gets done daily- for me personally it’s making the bed, loading/unloading this dishwasher, and putting a load of laundry on to wash/dry. It’s best to choose three simple tasks that don’t take a lot of time, that way you don’t get overwhelmed but still manage to get things crossed off your list.

(Some of my favorite cleaning products!)

2. Focusing on One Thing at a Time

Trying to take on a million things at once when you’re already stressed out is never a good idea. Breaking things down chore by chore (or room by room) helps you get things done more thoroughly without becoming overwhelmed. Don’t forget to take breaks and drink plenty of water!

3. Kick the Clutter!

I’m a recovered “clutter bug” and have been on a minimalistic journey for the past two years- by far one of the best changes I have ever made in my life. If there is an item in your house that is expired or broken toss it! If there are items that are still in good shape but do not fit you or doesn’t serve a purpose in your life, donate or sell it! I highly recommend trying a quarterly declutter and get rid of things that are taking up space and collecting dust in your home. Three of my favorite areas to start are:

• Toss all expired food / give away unexpired food that you are not going to eat.

• Declutter your closet at the start of each season. Yes it’s time consuming but if it does not fit or if it’s torn it’s taking up space.

• Get rid of expired beauty products. Sometimes we forget makeup and hygiene products have a shelf life. You don’t want to get an infection using old mascara! Also don’t forget to clean your brushes and sponges, they harbor bacteria.

I love Mrs Meyers! It smells amazing and its safe!

4. Once a Month Deep Cleans

I already know some people are probably thinking “only once a month?!” But I’m just being real here; when you’re fighting mental illness on top of working a job there are some chores you just don’t make time for. Anywho, choose a one day out of each month to devote to the “big stuff” like mopping, wiping down walls, baseboards, etc. I know these are the things no one wants to do but you will feel so much better once you do!

5. Don’t Be Afriad To Ask For Help

Whether you’re working a full time job or you’re a stay at home mom, everyone needs help sometimes. If there are multiple people living in your household ask each person to help out with one task a week, this will take a huge load off of you (and I promise it won’t kill them to help out, they live there too!).

I hope this post motivates you to go through your home and tidy your space. When I started my journey it was a little stressful at first, but it becomes addictive! I find myself less stressed and more at peace when my space is clean and everything is in its place. I would love to hear your cleaning tips and motivation in the comments!