Create a schedule
by Lori Hursey

Make a list of things you want to accomplish on a regular basis (whether at home or work).  Break the items down into days of the week.  I have a housecleaning schedule that includes everything I want to accomplish each week, and some quarterly items.  Because everything is broken down into 5 days of the week, I can usually complete the task in less than an hour. 

Some tasks only need to be addressed every other week.  I partner those items up together and specify them as the 1st and 3rd week, etc.  If I am unable to get to Monday’s task because of something unexpected, it’s fine to let it wait until the weekend or until the next Monday.  My list is specific enough that other members of the family can help out when needed.  This helps me do things on a schedule instead of waiting for something to look unclean.  In other words, it keeps the tail from wagging the dog. 

I’d be glad to share my housecleaning list.  It is a Word Document that you can adjust and personalize it as needed.  Just email me at lori@simplicityorganizing.com. 

Tip: My current house doesn’t seem to get as dusty as some of my previous homes.  On my “dusting day”, I broke down the rooms of my house into 4 weeks.  I feather dust (with my handheld Swiffer) every room on dusting day, but I only Pledge the room indicated for the current week.  That saves me a lot of time and the house appears just as clean.  

I’m also a supporter of child labor and have my children help me Swiffer when they’re not in school (summer break).  They love to help and earn the right to put a smiley face on their job chart (see separate JOB CHART tip) when they’re finished.

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