One of my new year resolutions is to try to be more tidy at home (I’m trying to alter my long standing habits) : make the bed every morning before I disappear to work; put things back after I’ve used them and  de-clutter whenever I can. I read in ‘Psychologies’ magazine that people who tidy have more organised minds so I’m wondering if I reverse the above concept (‘if you build it, they will come’) it might encourage me to become efficient at last. Plus, I do feel calmer when all is right around me and if this leads to me managing my writing time more effectively then it’s got to be a winner. I know my husband, who is a neat freak, will be thanking the Lord of Miracles for this good fortune!

      This life choice could not have come at a better time. Some people might argue that it’s impossible to be tidy minded when you are about to move house (9 days) but I disagree, it’s the perfect occasion. Not only am I bringing a methodical approach to the packing, it’s something I can begin on a fresh slate – new beginnings. I love creating a home and although I’ll miss the one I’m in, I’m also very excited about moving into the new place as it has lots of interesting spaces, arches and shapes – endless possibilities to fly.

     I’m planning on creating some extremely relaxing places in this new home: I finally have a study (up in the attic) for my writing and will paint it a light, dusky violet: the colour of meditation. A flash of energising yellow somewhere (maybe the kitchen) will be vital and maybe some calming blues and sultry reds. You may have guessed I love colour: nothing depresses me more than Magnolia walls everywhere you look! Serene is what I’m after (teaching in a busy and cluttered environment means I want the complete opposite when I get home). 

    My favourite part of creating a new home is buying fun stuff: pictures, prints, mirrors etc: things that give it character. I also never feel guilty when it comes to spending money on the house – it doesn’t feel as self-oriented as buying clothes for some reason. If I’m going to spend money and time making it a place I love being then it stands to reason that it deserves to be kept tidy and clutter-free. All good intentions but I’m quite messy so this is going to take some real effort. I associate my untidiness with a reaction to being fed up with my life: why bother? Since I’ve become more positive this year (phew!) post spinal surgery (out of pain for first time in two years); hub going self-employed (he’s much happier); my first children’s book downloaded to Amazon and rediscovering the pleasure I get from teaching (you have to isolate it from all the crap that goes on around it in the workplace) then maybe it’s time for a slightly more evolved me?

     Now let’s see if it works and I am able stick to it – apparently it takes three months to break a habit so I’ve got a little ways to go yet. Then it’s on to the next resolution: improving energy and well-being! Good luck to everyone else out there who is trying to break the habits of a life time – let me know how you fair!