HOW TO BE HAPPIER IN YOUR HOME

Here at Parkview Homes we strive to bring you happiness in your brand new home. However, once you move in, you are in control of creating your own “inner home happiness” for your new home.

I came across a great article with some great tips on how to do just that: http://headedsomewhere.com/2012/10/12/10-things/ (Click through for the full article).

It contains some great tips, not just for your home but also for you in order to create a better world each and every day for yourself. When I came across the article I knew it was something I wanted to pass along.

Here is the basis of each of the points they share:

1. Make your bed – a three minute task that provides positive impact by improving the look of your bedroom.
2. Bring every room back to ready – clutter causes stress, and that's a fact! Simply take three minutes to bring each room back to ready before you depart it. (Does this apply to the kitchen? I don’t think three minutes will cut it!)
3. Display sentimental items around your home – make your home a gallery of positive memories.
4. Start a gratitude journal – before bed, write down one happy memory from that day. Reflection is a part of happiness.
5. If you can’t get out of it, get into it – rather than drudging through the mundane household tasks, crank the music, sing and dance while vacuuming, doing dishes, or making the beds. In other words, create your own fun!
6. Before you get up each morning set an intent for the day – this is not adding another "to do" item on the list. Your daily intent could be "hug my loved ones" or "be productive".
7. Do small favours for your housemates or family members, expecting nothing in return – not even a thank you! This will cultivate a strong healthy relationship.
8. Call at least one friend or family member today – texts and emails don’t count!
9. Spend money on things that cultivate experiences at home – save money for a new BBQ or a DVD for family night.
10. Spend a few minutes each day connecting with something greater than yourself.

I love this list, they all make sense to me and I plan to implement some of these items into my own home and life right away! I particularly like item #6, I enjoy the idea of having an intent each day. Some days I have a lot to do in terms of tasks, but would benefit from having a larger purpose to my day. Something positive to think about accomplishing as I move through the day.

I already make my bed each day (check), and I was happy to see that number one on the list was covered off. I enjoy the satisfaction of turning down the bed each night and tossing the big pillows on the floor. “Messy bed equals messy head” sticks in the back of my mind.

I hope this inspires you like it did for me and good luck creating your personal list!

- Susan

___________________________________

Susan Fenn
Design Studio Manager
Parkview Homes Design Studio
580 The Queensway, Peterborough ON
susanfenn@parkviewhomes.ca
705.741.4410