Let’s get real: Chores aren’t fun. They are mundane, repetitive, and seemingly always pile up on our to-do lists! But we have some good news for you: It’s possible to find joy in chores – and we’re here to help!
Soak Up the Immediate Gratification
Few things give us immediate gratification, but chores can! Remember when you were a kid and couldn’t wait to show your parents your clean room? As adults, we can appreciate that getting caught up on laundry means we aren’t limited when getting dressed the next day; a sparkling toilet is a type of satisfaction we can’t even put into words; and put-away dishes + wiped down counters means you can start cooking the next day in a clean space.
Set a Timer
One way to do make sure you are not spending a ton of time on chores is to time yourself doing a chore you despise. For instance, if you hate doing the dishes, time yourself to see how long it takes. When you know dishes only take 10 minutes, they somehow seem more manageable. Another way to use a timer is to treat your chore like a race. For example, give yourself 20 minutes to clean the bathroom. Once you’re able to accomplish this, next time, set a goal for 18 minutes. Stay on the clock, focus your attention, and that chore will be over in no time.
In a Word: Escape
Distracting yourself with headphones can make chores more fun. Whether listening to a podcast, an audiobook, or your favorite ’90s tunes, doing chores can turn into quality time for yourself.
Make Yourself an Offer You Can’t Refuse
A little incentive can go a long way! Bribe yourself into doing chores by rewarding yourself with a coffee break, a pedicure, or ordering your favorite takeout. You can also layer in something you enjoy, like watching TV, while you iron.
Work Smart, Not Hard
You know what brings us joy? Having the tools to complete chores faster and more thoroughly. Take soap scum, for example. You can scrub with hot, soapy water, but you know what helps get rid of the ick? Cleaner designed to cut through soap scum. There are a ton of products that only require spraying and wiping, cutting down your chore time significantly.
Accept “Good Enough”
When it comes to cleaning, sometimes you just have to lower your standards. As badly as you want the house to be so clean that it looks like people don’t live there, real life is messy, and that’s okay. Your bathroom won’t always be spotless, there may be piles of laundry hidden in the closet, and those mugs in the kitchen sink can wait until tomorrow.
Dress the Part
You have clothes for the gym, work, and brunch, so why not have clothes to clean in? After all, choosing your cleaning clothes can be half the fun.