When Overwhelmed, Start Small

Image Courtesy of [debspoons]/FreeDigitalPhotos.net
I think it it is perfect that debspoons obviously
 understands the frustration often felt by spoonies.  

I am in the embarrassing place of being absolutely unsure of where to start this week.  This is so hard to admit when I am the author of a blog that is full of ways to get going.  My "goer" is not on easy access right now.  I am so tired of being fatigued, and things that were easier for me before I got sick are heavy burdens at this time.  

Sometimes, I wonder if I should tell you these kinds of truths, because I am here to encourage you;  however, I promised to be honest.  So, the truth is I have been having a hard time taking the baby steps and keeping them up.  I am a human with a chronic illness, just like the majority of people that read this blog.  Getting things done at my house can become overwhelming for me too.  

It's not that I have done nothing, because I have.  I look around me at the mess that has accumulated again  ( thought I had it nailed), and it makes me feel like I am starting over, even though I know it's not true.  What is true is that living in clutter brings down the spirits of the people in the disorderly house.  It is worse for people that are confined to their houses for long periods of time. Moreover, it is no fun coming home to a messy house. 

Right now, I am groping for a place to start.  I'm even surfing the internet for ideas.

The good news is I did shine my kitchen sink today.  And, that felt really good.  I want to replace the splash guard behind the sink too, but I feel guilty doing that when I have many other things that need doing.

The statement below comes from "Pro Organizer Tips:  What Not to Do When Decluttering Your Home."

Don't Bite Off More Than You Can Chew. "Do not set aside an ENTIRE day to organize your WHOLE house. Very few people have the energy and/or focus to spend 8 hours organizing. You'll likely become frustrated and less efficient as the day progresses. It's much better to spend a few hours -- 2 or 3 -- on one project or space. This way you'll feel motivated to do more, not burned out by the process." 

See:  not even all healthy people can do the whole house.  The following list is for me, just as much for you.

1. You need to evaluate what room you need clean first.  
2. Think PUPA (Pick up, put away). 
3. Then, use a timer for 5 to 15 minutes and do one area in your room -- like a table or the area around a chair, or clearing off a sofa. 
4. Next, rest, or go on if you want, but rest if you feel your energy lagging. 
5. Work on one area of the room, then move to the next.  

You may not be able to get everything done in one day, but you can make your mark.  You have done it before.  You can do it again.   Get out of that chair and make an effort to do at least one area in your chosen room.  You can do it.