Topic: Creating the Life You Want Right Where You Are
One of the best things that happened to me during the quarantine is that I found my creative bug. Since then, I’ve done several crafting and home decor projects that have made my home have the look I’ve always desired. Prior to that point, I knew what I wanted but didn’t have any idea how to actually achieve it. Yes, I went to Pinterest and I watched plenty of YouTube tutorials but that didn’t change that I had no idea what I was doing. Truthfully, the only thing that changed was my decision. I decided that even though didn’t know much, I was going to just try something and see what happens. That decision has changed my life for the better and I’m so glad I made it.
We’ve been in our house for 2 years officially and while we’ve done a lot to our builder’s grade home, there are a ton more projects that I want to complete. Why?!? The reason is honestly simple. This is the house we could afford, but not the house I wanted. The house I wanted would have been nearly $150,000 more than this one and likely would have meant that I would have needed to go back into the workforce. My compromise was to make this house look like the one I wanted. When you walk into model homes you’re sold on visual aesthetics. With that in mind, I’ve sought to mimic the look of the homes I loved right here in our space. I know this isn’t our forever home, but I refuse to tolerate this home until we get there. I want to love it here so I’m going to make it more loveable.
Here’s a few tips that have helped me during this process:
- Start small and with one space: Of course this means that it will take more time, but there’s nothing like having something completed versus several unfinished projects. I chose to start in a room that people see initially when they walk in the home. Truthfully, it is not 100% because two of the projects that need to take place are pretty pricey; however, it appears complete without those other additions and unless told no one would know. If you’re unsure where to start, do a random spinning wheel to decide or have a vote among family. The idea is to just start. Once you have a space chose, plan what you’d like done and little by little make it happen.
- Quit thinking you have to have _______ until you can do this: This is YOUR space so make it that. If you’re like me and not into changing paint colors, make colorful choices with accent pillows or wall art. There’s a possibility you’re like me and have plenty of options to choose from that aren’t getting used at their best capacity. Be willing to move things around and try something new. This has a tendency to make a space look completely different and it costs nothing but some elbow grease and time. Taking inventory of all your “stuff” is a great way to re-find things you forget about. If you’re renting, there are a ton of rental friendly options that allow you to change up the entire look of your space that won’t cause damage so you’re able to get your deposit back.
- Either be willing to spend money or do the work: There is no way around this in everyday life so your home shouldn’t be seen as anything differently. We are financially in a place far better than we ever have been so some projects we do end up paying for, but truthfully I’d rather save the money and do it myself. I’ve become very headstrong about being able to do anything I put my mind to so I like to test what I believe about me. I search for great deals at garage sales and free items on Facebook market for projects that I can use or sale. Pretty painted furniture has become very popular and with that popularity rise, so has the price tag. Grab some paint from your local hardware store, get a good brush or roller (trust me this matters), a drop cloth and get to work. Sure it may not be perfect, but because it’s yours you can change it accordingly. Just think about all the projects you want to complete and be honest where you can save and where it’s better to get a professional.
I recognize that this is geared towards the home, but you can apply this to many different areas of your life. Relationships, health, work/life balance, etc. If you get nothing from this entire post, remember that it all starts with a decision. You are the only one that can make the change you desire. What’s an area in your home/life you’re tackling currently?