Happiness isn’t automatic, and there’s no magic formula for running the perfect household. The good news is that you have control over a lot of what does happen in and around your home. Look around and start taking responsibility for your wellbeing and that of those who you live with.
You’re in charge of what goes on at home, and you have the ability to get everyone and your belongings in order. Spread love, encourage one another, and teach your family members to pitch in and help once in a while. Use open and clear communication with one another and value each other’s opinions for a more peaceful existence. See eight steps to an even better home life.
Unplug more
Although devices and television are fun and entertaining, they take away from the limited time you have together as a family. Set a limit or rule on how long each person can be connected and then use this free time you created to talk, play a game or eat dinner as a group. Unplugging will make you realize just how much time you all do have in any given evening or weekend. Think of activities and topics of conversation to engage in when you’re not glued to your screens.
Get A Pet
A pet is a wonderful addition to any family. They bring joy and unconditional love. Although they are work, it’s not so bad if you divide it up amongst the family members. Be aware there are products and resources out there to help you take care of your pet and curb any frustrations. For example, it’s a good idea to get VetIQ dog pill pockets, which are delicious chicken flavored treats with a built-in tube so that it’s easy to hide a capsule or tablet inside. Getting your pet to take pills will never be a chore again. Set a schedule for who’s in charge of feeding, walking, grooming and giving your pet any necessary medications. This is a positive way to teach your kids responsibility, and the pet will light up your home with their furry friendliness.
Invest in Home Improvements
Part of the reason you may not like being at home that much is because it’s old or outdated. Invest time and energy into making it look nicer and homier for your enjoyment. If you don’t want to spend a lot of money, then consider doing some of the projects yourself as a couple. All it takes is a fresh coat of paint, new décor, updated furniture and a nice kitchen and bathrooms. Set goals for when you want each update to be done, so it’s not so overwhelming. Give yourself time to implement the changes and appreciate each upgrade as it occurs.
Spend Quality Time Together
Your home will feel more like a household when you schedule activities and make it a point to spend quality time together. Go for bike rides, have a BBQ or cook a meal as a family. Change it up each time, so you don’t get bored. Use the activity as a way to reconnect and share about what’s going on in everyone’s lives. This way you won’t feel like strangers passing in the hallway and will have a better sense of comradery. Your house will be filled with love and feel warmer knowing you’re all on the same page and you have each other’s backs.
Organize, Clean & Declutter
The simple act of cleaning, organizing and decluttering will instantly make your home feel more welcoming and cozy. Make sure all of your belongings have a place and aren’t taking up space where they shouldn’t be. Clean out the closets and fill and label storage bins that can be put away nicely for later use. You won’t be running around ragged wondering where items are located when your kids, spouse or you are in need of them. Take pride in the fact that you know where your possessions are stored and can find them quickly.
Practice Work-Life Balance
Life is hectic, but that’s no excuse not to set boundaries for yourself. Make it clear that you’re not always going to be the one working overtime at the office. Ask to work from home once in a while and work ahead if you know you have a family commitment coming up you want to attend. Talk with your spouse and come up with a plan, so you’re both not always working long hours and not attending to the household duties. You risk your health suffering if you’re always putting everyone else first. Prioritize and let what you get done in one day be enough, so you can spend more time with your loved ones.
Take Action
The only way to a better home life is to take action. Make a list and set goals about what you want to see change in the future. Use your free time and weekends to start working toward achieving results and feeling better about your home life. If you want to spend more time with your kids, then communicate that to them and set a date you’re going to be together with no distractions. Ideas are great, but then it’s up to you to put them into action and make your transformations a reality.
Have Fun
Life has somber moments, but there’s also plenty of time to have fun. Be silly, laugh and avoid taking mistakes too seriously at home. Show your kids that it’s okay to not be perfect and that it’s healthy to be able to laugh at yourself once in a while. Be random and spontaneous when the mood strikes and you want to step outside of your comfort zone. Smile more, and stay positive and strong when life doesn’t go your way.
Conclusion
You’re the creator of how you want your home to be run. If it’s time for a facelift, then use this as an opportunity to implement a few new changes. These are eight steps to an even better home life.
