I began this weekly post with intention of sharing specific projects that you could do at home. But if you're anything like me (Laura), you already have a few unfinished projects around the house. Actually if you're anything like me, you have close to a dozen unfinised projects around the house. All might not be to the extent of the demo shown above, but they are still UNFINISHED. Looking around my house, here's a few examples of the half-finished projects that stand out: a “mostly” painted exterior to my home, a partially removed side fence, my girls' 90% completed bathroom, my guestroom that I have the paint for but have yet to paint…There are also some minor projects that I need to complete like replacing the outlet covers in my girl's room, hanging a new shower curtain, adding some ribbon trim to some curtains. You get the picture!
The question is, why are all of these projects unfinished. TWO words…TIME and ENERGY. My husband lacks the time and I, after taking care of 4 children each day, generally lack the energy (and often the inspiration). So what happens at my house, and maybe at yours too, is that we find the time and energy to start new and exciting projects, but fail to take the time to finish the old ones. But let me provide you with a little verbal and visual encouragement today.
1. Think of the satisfaction you'll feel when that project is completed!
You saw the picture above of my husband removing old flooring from our home. Now here's the satisfaction we enjoyed when that project was completed:
2. Give yourself a deadline!
I have found the best deadlines to be parties, showers, company visiting, etc. When you know someone will see the unfinished project, it will probably help to motivate you (and your spouse) to get it done. And here's one of my favorite completed projects: This was literally one of the ugliest bathrooms I'd ever seen. It was the last project we completed in our last home because we DREADED tackling it. The deadline of listing our home for sale was the only thing that actually made us tackle it. And while it was a lot of work, it was actually less time consuming than we had thought.
BEFORE:
and AFTER:
3. Create a reward for completion!
Yes, I know this sounds like the sort of thing we do for our children, but it works, doesn't it?! Think of something that is special that you rarely do. It doesn't have to cost money, but it can. Maybe it's a date night with your spouse, maybe a new top or handbag. Maybe you'll simply decide NOT to watch your favorite show or eat your favorite treat until the project is complete. You know how you're best motivated, so figure out an incentive and then reward yourself when it's done.
Though I'll tell you, from a woman that has completed her share of projects,often the completion of the project turns out to be reward enough. So, look around your house…no not later, RIGHT NOW, Look around. What do you see that needs to be completed? What can you tackle this weekend or tonight? Procrastination only makes the job seem bigger and wastes much needed emotional energy.
Quit saying, “Someday I'll fix it, make it, sew it, paint it, sort it, clean it, remove it or replace it” and JUST DO IT! Have a great and productive weekend.
