The Best Way To Productive Cleaning: Set a Timer!

When I became a new mom, and once we were stationed out west, I had to adjust to many things. The biggest adjustment I’ve made is managing a household with a child by myself. All of us go through major adjustments when a little one is introduced to the world! I went from holding a 50-hour a week job to suddenly living across the country, with an infant, as a stay-at-home mom. I quickly realized that being a stay-at-home mom is by leaps and bounds the toughest “job” I’ve ever held… although, the most rewarding as well.

Once I asserted myself in this new position, I began adopting new strategies to new challenges. One of these challenges was managing the household. It was something that made me deeply discouraged because I didn’t feel successful in how I was doing things.

In all my distractions, I found myself having well-intentions to tackle a room or two, yet ending the day with even less accomplished. There is always something to be cleaned or put away, something to cook or a diaper to change! Suddenly, I realized why I was doing all of these things, yet seeing no progress.

I lacked Time Management.

In managing my household, I needed some sort of structure. This structure relied heavily on my time and how I could make the best use of it. The next thing I did, would prove to be the best trick to my productivity.

I set a timer and a goal!

For example, my living room. I gave myself 15 minutes to clean and straighten this room. To do this, I used the giant digital stopwatch from my iPad (a kitchen timer would work, too!). It was amazing how I saw myself staying focused, paying attention to the timer, and getting things done. I was maximizing my time in the exact space I needed.

The amount of time you set your timer for may vary depending on your needs. Sometimes I will set mine for five minutes, or ten, or even thirty minutes. This method should be used frequently to maintain good up-keep in your home. You may even set a different timer for a deeper cleaning, perfect time for spring!

Now, anytime a space needs a pick-me-up, I will set a timer. It all depends on the needs at the time, and how much time I have that day. But by doing this, I do not allow myself to be distracted by putting toys in the bedroom and then deciding that bedroom needs to be vacuumed. I can now easily focus on one room at a time and it has been bliss!

I am so happy that God revealed this method to me and it works like a charm. If you have similar troubles, please give this a try and let me know how it works for you.

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