I’m juggling kids, new business ventures, packing to move, so instead of spring cleaning, here’s my new strategy: sprint cleaning.
They say it’s spring, although the two feet of snow in my yard belies that–yes, two feet. It’s true.
Spring means spring cleaning, a custom that I think is lovely.
I do, in fact, empty my cupboards and go through the drawers regularly.
I’d love to add in washing the walls and all the nit-picky bits real spring cleaning involves.
But for now, that’s not my life.
I’m juggling kids, new business ventures, packing to move, etc.
So instead of spring cleaning, here’s my new strategy: sprint cleaning.
Every morning, I make a to-do list.
It’s just what I do.
I usually do succeed in doing at least a couple of things and failing to do 15.
It’s depressing.
I tell myself that I will just catch up after the kids go to bed…and then I am too tired.
However, I have found that I can do anything for 20-30 minutes.
Hence the sprinting.
I turn on my timer and work as hard as I can until the buzzer rings.
One of the reasons that I think this works well is that it can be a pleasing combination of multitasking and focusing.
My husband keeps telling me that multitasking is “proven” to be inefficient, and I can see that frenetic activity sometimes accomplishes little.
But I’m not going to just sit while the laundry washes; I’m not going to stop doing dishes while something bakes.
Sprint Cleaning: No this isn’t a Typo
I think my sprinting is a good middle-ground, as I can set some other task in motion before I set the timer.
It truly is amazing how much you can get done in even 20 minutes of uninterrupted work.
I’m still trying to use my timer more frequently–I’d like to “sprint clean” each room a couple of times a week, as needed.
However, at least I’ve discovered a tactic that helps me.
Have you thought about how to clean and organize your Kid’s room?
If you are not the type of person to use sprint cleaning learn these how to clean and organize your Kid’s room.
And finally if you want to clean like a pro then dig into this article – 5 Steps to cleaning your Home like a Pro.
Do you have a new home or are moving to a new home – check out this New Home Cleaning Checklist.
Are you looking for new job opportunities – check out this 10 Unique Jobs For Teenagers
I’m sure my method would drive some of you batty.
What tricks do you use to make housework more effective?
Me I just hire a cleaning service.
I do something similar. I have a playlist on my phone that is about 30 minutes long. I’ll turn it on and clean til the music stops. I shuffle the songs so I don’t know when I’m getting close to the end. When I hear silence, I quit and take a break (for the rest of the day!)
Great idea, I like that. 😀
This is interesting! I don’t think there is one way to do things! Some people thrive on multi-tasking. You just have to do what works for you!
I think the list is the key. I have a file box with jobs in it broken down by length of each task. When I get a phone call, I can walk to the box and pick out things that I can do while talking & listening that will not require a lot of noise or so much effort, that I sound winded. With cell and cordless phones, we can go anywhere in the house to do odd jobs. Even picking up the clutter of the day can be accomplished while on the phone. Make a list of small, short timed jobs and see what you can get done in one short call.
I usually have a mental list going on but when things get too hectic I do start writing the important things down that have to be done.I like your idea of the timer.That’ what I should try.Thanks for posting your slant on things.I enjoyed reading this.