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I Stopped Doing These 7 Things and My Home Immediately Looked Better

Let’s be honest, keeping a home looking fabulous can sometimes feel like a Herculean task. I mean, between work, social commitments, and the occasional Netflix binge, who has the time? But you know what? I recently made some simple changes—seven, to be exact—that turned my home from “meh” to “wow!” faster than you can say “declutter.” Here’s a little rundown of what I stopped doing and how it made a world of difference.

1. I Stopped Ignoring Clutter

assorted-brand product lot near window
Photo by Onur Bahçıvancılar

Clutter is like that friend who overstays their welcome at a party—at first, it’s fine, but soon it just gets annoying. I used to let stacks of magazines, random shoes, and that weird collection of takeout menus pile up. The moment I decided to tackle the clutter head-on, I felt an immediate sense of relief. My living space looked more open, inviting, and, dare I say, spacious? Less clutter means less stress, and I finally have room to breathe. Plus, I found a few lost treasures—hello, missing remote!

2. I Stopped Overdecorating

It’s easy to get carried away with decorations, especially when there are so many cute things out there. I used to think, “More is more!” But let’s be real: sometimes less is more. I took a step back and started prioritizing a few key pieces that truly resonate with me. Now, instead of a cluttered display of knickknacks, my home showcases a few lovely items that tell a story—like that quirky vase from my travels. It feels more cohesive, and honestly, it’s way easier to clean!

3. I Stopped Neglecting the Walls

Let’s face it: walls can be pretty boring if you let them. I used to ignore those blank canvases, thinking they’d just “blend in.” But after I decided to add some color and art, wow! A fresh coat of paint or a few well-placed frames can transform a dull space into a lively one. I hung up some family photos and a few paintings that inspire me, and suddenly my walls have personality. Who knew they had it in them?

4. I Stopped Skipping the Floors

Okay, hear me out. Floors can be a bit of a pain to clean, right? But once I stopped avoiding them, I realized how much they affect the overall vibe of a room. I made a habit of vacuuming and mopping more regularly, and the difference was astonishing! A clean floor doesn’t just look better; it makes the whole house feel fresher. Plus, it’s like a mini workout—who knew cleaning could be productive and beneficial?

5. I Stopped Leaving Dishes in the Sink

Oh, the dreaded dish pile-up! I used to let dishes sit in the sink like they were auditioning for a reality show. But once I committed to washing them right after meals, my kitchen transformed overnight. It’s amazing how a clean sink can make the whole kitchen feel more inviting. Plus, I no longer have to face the horror of that growing mountain of plates. It’s like a weight lifted off my shoulders—who knew dishwashing could be so liberating?

6. I Stopped Ignoring Natural Light

Natural light is like the fairy godmother of interior design. I used to keep my curtains closed, thinking I was being practical. But once I threw them open and let that sunshine flood in, my home felt instantly brighter and more cheerful. It’s incredible how a little sunlight can elevate your mood and make your space feel more alive. Plus, it’s free—talk about a win-win!

7. I Stopped Overcomplicating My Cleaning Routine

I’ll admit it: I had a cleaning routine that could rival a military operation. I was so focused on doing it “the right way” that I often didn’t do it at all. But once I simplified things and focused on a few key tasks each week, I realized that keeping my home tidy doesn’t have to be a chore. A quick 10-minute tidy-up here and there works wonders, and I can actually enjoy my space instead of feeling like I’m constantly battling grime. It’s all about balance—and maybe a little bit of a dance party while I clean!

So there you have it—seven things I stopped doing that turned my home into a sanctuary rather than a source of stress.