Spring cleaning can be a chore for some people and a joy for others. I learned about this custom when I was young. Now, when I think about spring cleaning, I remember good times.
When I was young and lived in Manitoba, which has four seasons but no rain in any of them, the cold, slow days of winter would end with a yearly farm ritual: spring cleaning. We cleaned every part of our house with brooms, dusters, scrub brushes, rags, and other tools. Every inch of the closet was cleaned out, inventories were made, the value of each item was determined, the surfaces were washed and cleaned, and then the clothes that were still "good" were put away in a way that made sense and was useful. They moved the beds, emptied the dressers, and dusted the ceilings.
The window cleaning is the thing I remember most. When the windowpanes were taken out to clean them, the windowsill turned into a place of pure bliss. I can remember those times very well: I was sitting in my favourite spot and watching the ice break up in the creek behind our house. Huge pieces floated by, breaking loudly, twisting, crunching, and piling up in a jumbled way that announced the start of a new season. There was a lot of fresh air. On the left were pussy willows, and on the right were bird feeders where chickadees were chirping. It was wonderful!
On a day like that, I learned that working hard pays off. At that young age, I could feel the difference in my home's and my own energy after a day of thorough cleaning and getting rid of clutter. The house seemed brighter, lighter, and happier. I felt like skipping.
The best part of decluttering and organising for me now is hearing how my clients feel after a session with me: lighter and more free. Getting rid of clutter, whether at home or at work, can be a good way to let go of the past and start a new season in life.
What do you have planned for spring? Does a messy room or desk make it hard for you to enjoy your home or office the way you want to? Has the number of dust bunnies in your house gotten out of hand? Do you feel like spring cleaning is a task of Olympian size and difficulty? Have you never thought that a good spring cleaning at the office would be a good idea?
