I’ve always been an untidy girl unfortunately. I really struggle with items that don’t have a ‘home’ especially. When I used to tidy my room as a child I would be surrounded by a sea of items, deep in my little own world likely having rediscovered something. I also used to blame my little sister for why my room was a mess, bless her! It wasn’t all her fault as you can imagine!

After moving out as an adult I started to struggle keeping on top of life and all the chores that go along with it. I wish I had moved out earlier now as it would have taught me more responsibility and to have more respect for my caregivers. I became more anxious than normal and would stress about not getting enough done. I still do to be honest, especially at weekends when I pressure myself to have completed all of my chores before the end of it. It eventually all felt like a chore that took me away from my leisure activities and socialising.

Here is a link to Mrs Hinch’s Instagram:

https://instagram.com/mrshinchhome?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Anyway, a few years ago I discovered Mrs Hinch and how she helped her anxiety by cleaning. This lit a light bulb for me by providing a different perspective. Could housework become enjoyable? I’m pleased to say that it can be. I like the idea of finding joy in everyday, from everyday activities. I might be odd in that I find ironing relaxing for example. Is there anything more satisfying than a clean, tidy house to relax in, knowing that everything has been done?

I don’t enjoy all chores and housework isn’t exactly leisure for me. I still struggle to tackle more than the weekly tasks, fighting metaphorical fires. Deep and seasonal cleans are always a catch up for me. I have found Mrs Hinch’s Instagram and notebook to be very helpful for inspiration and keeping lists.

Here is a link to Stacey Solomon’s Instagram:

https://instagram.com/staceysolomon?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Another public figure that I enjoy watching tidying is Stacey Solomon. Her tap to tidy posts are so satisfying, turning an untidy space to an aesthetically pleasing one. She also uses similar phrases for new creative developments, they’re enjoyable too. I’m still part way through her autobiography. I love how upbeat and bubbly she is on any platform, I find it a pick me up. Especially since I can be on the grumpy side at times. Her enthusiasm for life is infectious.

I often find myself scrolling through cleaning posts for enjoyment and motivation nowadays. You can tell I’m in my 30s!

I will point out that another reason I am posting about these two ladies is that they are actually the same age and year group as me, which I find odd. They seem so much mature and are further on in life. Sophie is from Basildon, I come from Thundersley which I consider to be halfway between Southend and Basildon. I used to visit Basildon sometimes for shopping, the cinema or bowling etc.! Stacey is from Dagenham which is in Essex too. She mentioned previously enjoying visiting Lakeside Shopping Centre which I also love.

Finally, I should also add that I find seeing all of the perfect houses on Instagram intimidating and that mine just doesn’t compare. I try to be realistic by telling myself that no one’s home is perfect, tidy and clean all the time if they live in it.

Off to read in a hot bath after an evening of cleaning and tidying,

Amy x