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How to Clean When Overwhelmed: Getting Motivated Despite Big Messes

how to clean when overwhelmed

Messy countertops, cluttered living rooms, dust bunnies under the bed – your home has become a state of chaos that feels like a looming mountain, too steep to climb

Perhaps the dishes have piled up in the sink, or maybe the laundry has formed its own rebellious heap, each wrinkled garment mocking your lack of time and energy. 

Whatever the case, you’re not even sure where to start. This is an all-too-common scenario that sends stress levels skyrocketing, the overwhelmed feeling gnawing at your peace of mind. But, you can take a deep breath and relax. While you may feel overwhelmed right now, Cleaner’s Joy is here to help. 

With a compassionate understanding of what you’re going through, we’re poised to ease all that stress and make this daunting task a bit more manageable. We’ll guide you through how to clean when overwhelmed below, setting you up for success with tips on breaking big messes down into smaller, easier-to-tackle tasks. 

And should you decide that the thought of cleaning an overwhelming mess is taking too much of a toll on your mental health or interfering with more important responsibilities, remember this: Cleaners Joy is your trusted cleaning service in Portland, Maine. 

If you’re in the area, let us handle the mess for you so you can focus on what matters most – getting some “you time”, catching up on other chores, or spending time with your family. First, why do I get so overwhelmed when cleaning?

Why Do I Get So Overwhelmed With Cleaning?

Understanding why cleaning can be such an overwhelming task is the first step in conquering the chaos. It’s not merely a chore – it’s a complex interplay of emotional and physical challenges holding you back. Let’s take a look at some of these below:

Emotional Responses to Mess and Disorder

  • Stress and Anxiety: Clutter and disarray can create a sense of chaos in our minds. Scientific studies have even shown a direct correlation between clutter and increased cortisol (stress hormone) levels. A messy home may serve as a constant visual reminder of tasks left undone, leading to feelings of inadequacy or failure.
  • Procrastination and Avoidance: When faced with a daunting cleaning task, procrastination often kicks in. This might be more than mere laziness; it can be a form of avoidance, a way to escape feelings of anxiety and overwhelm. The more you avoid it, the larger the task looms, creating a vicious cycle that feeds your distress.
  • Connection to Personal Value and Self-worth: For some, a clean home is tied to personal identity and social judgment. The fear of being perceived as messy or disorganized can create emotional barriers, making cleaning not just a task but a judgment of character.

Physical Challenges: The Time and Effort Required

  • The Time Factor: Cleaning a home, especially if it’s reached a certain level of disarray, can be time-consuming. In our fast-paced lives, finding the time to dedicate to cleaning can feel nearly impossible. The mere thought of spending hours scrubbing and tidying might leave you feeling defeated before you even start.
  • Effort and Energy Required: Cleaning isn’t just about time; it requires physical effort and energy. Tackling a big mess often means more than a quick wipe-down; it means deep cleaning, sorting, organizing, and sometimes, even repairing. This can be exhausting, particularly if you’re already worn down by daily life’s responsibilities.
  • Lack of Know-How: Perhaps you want to clean, but you’re not sure where to start or what products to use. The uncertainty and lack of confidence in how to approach the task can add to the overwhelm, making it seem like an insurmountable challenge.

That being said, these challenges are merely hurdles you have to overcome to reap the benefits of a clean, organized home. Trust us – it’s worth the work in the end! 

The first step is getting yourself excited for the task, transforming your stress into motivation. That being said, let’s talk about how to get motivated to clean when overwhelmed.

How to Get Motivated to Clean When Overwhelmed: Advice on Getting Yourself Up for the Task

We’ve all faced the struggle to find motivation for cleaning, particularly when overwhelmed by the magnitude of the mess. It’s not just about the physical mess – it’s an emotional and psychological challenge that can feel insurmountable

But, with the right motivation, you’ll find yourself energized and excited to face this challenge head-on. So, here is how to get motivated to clean when overwhelmed: 

Recognizing Your Feelings and Validating the Struggle

Feelings of dread and paralysis when faced with cleaning are rooted in our emotional response to disorder. It’s not merely a reaction to physical clutter: it’s the chaos it symbolizes in our lives

It’s essential to recognize these feelings and understand that it’s a natural human response. By embracing these emotions without judgment, you’re allowing yourself the compassion to move forward.

Setting Realistic Goals: Baby Steps to Success

The idea of cleaning an entire house or even a room can be intimidating. The secret lies in breaking down these massive tasks into manageable portions. 

By focusing on one small area at a time, like a single drawer or a specific corner of a room, you shift from a mindset of being overwhelmed to one of control. 

Celebrating each small success builds confidence and momentum, leading to more significant achievements over time.

Creating a Supportive Environment: Enlisting Help and Encouragement

The environment in which you clean can significantly impact your motivation. Creating a joyful and supportive atmosphere can make the task feel less burdensome. 

Whether it’s inviting a friend to assist, playing uplifting music, or adorning your space with items that inspire you, these positive influences can transform the experience from a chore into an enjoyable activity. Of course, if you have kids, a partner, or roommates living with you, this is the time to rally the troops!

Finding Your “Why”: Connecting Cleaning to Positive Outcomes

Understanding the deeper meaning behind a clean space can propel you forward. Maybe it’s about creating a sanctuary to relax, a place to entertain friends, or a productive work environment. 

Whatever the case, connecting the task of cleaning to these larger life goals can turn it into a purpose-driven mission rather than a mundane chore. 

Following this advice will have you feeling more eager to get the process underway so you can be done with it. And below, we’ll set you up for success with tips on how to clean when overwhelmed to make it quick, easy, and dare we say enjoyable.

How to Clean When Overwhelmed: Tips for Making a Daunting Process a Bit More Manageable 

The journey from overwhelmed to organized is possible, and we’ve assembled some practical, actionable strategies to make the process not only manageable but even satisfying. Here’s how to clean when overwhelmed.

Starting Small: Picking One Area or Task at a Time

When confronted with a mess, the idea of cleaning the entire space can be paralyzing. That’s why it’s vital to start small. The process of cleaning an entire home can take hours when done right. So instead, focus on one room and one area at a time.

If you don’t know where to start when cleaning a house, choose the room that represents the biggest obstacle to you. Maybe it’s the kitchen, or perhaps it’s the kids’ playroom. Once you have a room chosen, select a particular drawer, shelf, or corner to focus on. 

This targeted approach not only makes the task seem more achievable but also provides a clear path forward, leading to a series of small victories that pave the way for overall success.

Map Out Your Cleaning Process Room-by-Room

Having a clear plan is like having a roadmap for a journey. Sketch out a room-by-room cleaning strategy, identifying specific tasks and goals for each space. 

This step-by-step plan not only guides your actions but also helps you track your progress. It’s a tangible way to measure success and maintain momentum. If you’re interested in a whole house cleaning checklist that can simplify the process for you, feel free to steal ours.

Declutter Before Actually Cleaning a Space: Removing Trash and Putting Things Away

Before you even begin cleaning, tackle the clutter. This includes removing trash, putting away misplaced items, and organizing belongings. 

By clearing the physical chaos, you’re also making the cleaning process smoother and more efficient. Think of it as laying the groundwork – a decluttered space is a space ready for cleaning.

Using the Right Tools and Supplies: Efficiency and Enjoyment

Having the right tools on hand not only makes the process more efficient but also more enjoyable. Research and invest in quality cleaning tools and supplies that suit your needs. 

But, don’t get overwhelmed here even further. With so many cleaning solutions available it can be hard to tune out the noise. You really only need a few basic things:

  • Multi-use cleaners
  • Microfiber cloths
  • Vaccuum
  • Broom/dustpan
  • Mop 

The correct cleaning arsenal can turn a laborious task into a satisfying one. Furthermore, it’s about using these tools effectively. Knowing when and how to use them can be the difference between struggle and success.

Embracing Imperfection: Progress, Not Perfection

Cleaning doesn’t have to mean achieving flawlessness. Accepting that it’s okay not to have everything perfect can relieve a lot of pressure. Focus on progress rather than perfection. 

If you cleaned one room more thoroughly than you have in months, that’s a victory! Celebrate it and recognize that improvement is a journey, not a one-time event.

Make the Cleaning Process Fun With Music and More

We’ve discussed incorporating music, but why stop there? Challenge yourself with timed cleaning bursts, rewarding yourself with small treats, or making a game out of it with family members. 

You can also enjoy a glass of wine while you clean, or treat yourself after it’s all said and done to a cold drink in your newly cleaned space. Creativity in your approach can turn a mundane task into an engaging experience.

Say Goodbye to the Stress of Cleaning Big Messes: Get Peace of Mind By Partnering With Cleaners Joy!

There you have it – how to clean when overwhelmed. We’ve explored various strategies to tackle cleaning when it feels overwhelming, but there’s another option that might just be the perfect solution for you: professional help

At Cleaner’s Joy, you can say goodbye to the stress and anxiety that comes with constant messes in your home. We’re the premier provider of house cleaning services in Portland, Maine. By letting us handle the mess for you, you can focus your attention and energy on more important things in your life: your family, your work, or other chores.

Let’s explore why this might be the right choice for you and introduce you to your new partner in creating a fresh, clean living space.

Why Hiring a Professional Might be the Right Choice for You

Life is busy, and finding time for yourself can be challenging. The pressure to maintain a clean home adds another layer of stress that can impact your well-being. Here’s why hiring a professional cleaner might be your best choice:

  • Expertise: Professionals know how to clean efficiently and effectively. They can tackle stubborn stains and reach those hard-to-clean areas.
  • Time-saving: Free up your time for activities you love or simply to relax.
  • Health: A deep clean can eliminate allergens and create a healthier living environment.
  • Personalized Service: Tailored cleaning services can meet your specific needs and preferences.
  • Peace of Mind: Knowing that your home will be clean allows you to focus on other aspects of your life.

In considering the cost of house cleaning services, it’s well worth the investment. That being said, here’s why you can count on us at Cleaner’s Joy to provide a world-class cleaning service every time…

Introducing Cleaners Joy: How We Understand and Support Your Needs

In the age of digital convenience, where online shopping has transformed our lives, shouldn’t booking a house cleaning service be just as effortless? At Cleaners Joy, we think so. 

We’re a proud family-owned business that’s set out to redefine the standards of home cleaning. When you have a packed schedule, finding the time to clean can seem impossible. Life is hectic, but we’re here to bring simplicity back into it.

Imagine a service that understands the personal touch a home needs. A service that emphasizes customer care as much as the quality of cleaning. That’s Cleaners Joy. Our ethos is simple: Your home is your sanctuary, and it deserves the best.

And the best doesn’t mean just a surface clean. It’s the promise of a reliable professional who respects your space as much as you do. It’s the assurance of no hidden costs, just straightforward and open communication. 

From standard cleans to deep dives, move-in/move-out preparations, home organization, or even office spaces, our services are tailored to meet a range of needs. Getting started couldn’t be easier:

  • BOOK: Choose when you want us to come over.
  • CLEAN: Our skilled professionals, equipped with pet-friendly products, take care of the rest.
  • RELAX: Revel in the freshness of your home.

Yet, beyond the clean spaces we promise, is a commitment to trust. We’re not just another cleaning company – we’re your neighbors. We know the gravity of inviting someone into your personal space, and it’s a responsibility we don’t take lightly. 

Each cleaner is not just experienced and motivated but also rigorously vetted, undergoing background checks and thorough interviews. Because at the end of the day, if they’re not good enough for our homes, they’re not good enough for yours.

You can learn more about what is included in a basic house cleaning or one of our more thorough services over under our “services” tab. But at this point, it’s time we wrapped up this guide on how to clean when overwhelmed. 

Final Thoughts on How to Clean When Overwhelmed

Confronting a messy home can be daunting, but you don’t have to do it alone. With Cleaners Joy by your side, not only do you get a pristine environment but also the peace of mind that comes with top-notch service and trusted professionals.

Life is a whirlwind of responsibilities. Why not outsource the stress of cleaning to experts who genuinely care? You’ve got better things to worry about.

Otherwise, you can take what you learned in this guide on how to clean when overwhelmed and put it to the test. We hope that you feel a bit more confident and clear in your next steps!

By embracing strategies like starting small, mapping out the cleaning process, decluttering, using the right tools, and finding joy in the process, you can turn a daunting task into a manageable one. 

But if the idea of cleaning still weighs heavily on you, remember that professional help is just a click away at Cleaners Joy.

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