As summer approaches, you want to start thinking about relaxation or planning those family vacations. Before you jump into a more relaxed mindset, though, you’ll need to do some spring cleaning.
Why You Should Prepare for Summer
Decluttering your space and mind can make your summer more enjoyable. Here are some other reasons to get ready for the season ahead of time.
Your Kids Will Be Home
Your kids will be home more now that school is out. They may scatter their toys around the house or track in dirty footprints. Spring is an excellent time to figure out how to organize the clutter and keep your floors clean. After all, you’ll also have less time to take care of personal matters, such as relationships.
Your Family May Come to Visit
During the summer, family members often come for extended visits. In the fall, you are busy balancing school and work schedules, which can leave you less time to clean up your guest bedroom. Extended family visits can also result in pushing things back on your to-do list.
The Season Can Bring in More Mess
Summer brings in other messes you want to prepare for. Rainstorms can lead to dirt and mud being tracked into your house, and your kids can drag in sand from beach trips. If you go away on vacation, you don’t want to be scrambling to clean up your home before you leave.
It Can Help You Stay Cool
You want your air to circulate properly during the summer heat. If you don’t regularly clean your vents, they can gather dust and allergens. Doing some light dusting in spring can save you hassle once the weather becomes hotter.
It May Improve Your Mood
Seeing dirty dishes or clothes piled up can increase your anxiety. Having your house organized can help calm your mind and boost your productivity. As summer approaches, you may start spending more time at home. A tidy house can make family bonding nights much more enjoyable.
You Can Better Enjoy Summer Events
You also want to have a clear mind during the summer. This is time for family barbecues and vacations. Having worries hanging over your head can hinder your summer mood. Cleaning up areas in your personal life allows you to enjoy the season and bond with your family.
How to Clean up Your Life
Here are some ways to get your life in order before summer begins.
1. Reevaluate Your Relationships
Reflect on your current relationships, and consider getting rid of ones that cause you stress.
If you’re trying to decide if it’s the right time to reevaluate your friendships, here are some signs to look out for:
- You’re unhappy after getting together
- You’re constantly apologizing for them
- They drain your energy
- The relationship is one-sided
- They make you feel used
Also, think about any old friends you might want to get back in touch with. Figure out how to prioritize your meaningful relationships.
2. Revamp Your Fitness Routine
Staying active is essential. You should aim for at least 30 minutes of daily physical activity. Try changing up your regular exercise routine by challenging yourself to run a 5k or taking a yoga class. Whatever your fitness goals are, consider writing them down and sticking to them as summer approaches. Staying in shape will also help to reduce stress.
3. Declutter Your Physical Space
Take time to go through stuff in your home, determining what you need. Get rid of clothes you don’t wear anymore. Also, look into your kid’s toy collection to see what’s been outgrown. You can donate items to charity or sell them online.
You also want to declutter your vehicle so it’s ready for family outings and last-minute road trips. Cars should be properly maintained so vital components run smoothly, so be sure to check your wiper blades and change your oil. You don’t want your ride’s breakdown to put a damper on your plans.
Here are tips for maintaining your van:
- Take out any trash
- Use a vacuum
- Wash the outside
- Check your tire pressure
- Test your battery
4. Refocus Your Mind
You have many responsibilities on your plate, but you should still make time for yourself. Consider taking a hot bath or listening to your favorite song. Yoga and meditation are also great ways to calm down your mind. Mediation can help control your anxiety and improve your mood.
Here are some of the other benefits mediation can offer:
- It reduces stress
- It lowers memory loss
- It promotes emotional health
- It enhances self-awareness
- It lengthens your attention span
You want to be fully present during all your summer festivities.
5. Unplug From Your Devices
Technology is constantly at our fingertips, and it’s easy to get sucked into the world of online entertainment. Take the time to declutter your phone, social media accounts and computer.
Unfollow accounts that bring you negative energy. Instead, fill up your feeds with positivity. Also, delete any old contacts or apps from your phone. This frees up your attention to focus on more important things, such as your next family vacation.
Start Your Summer Right
You want to focus on making memories during summer. Decluttering your home and mind can help with this. Once you reorganize your life, you can enjoy a season full of family and adventure.
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