Over the last 6 to 12 months I’ve been trying to get on top of things at home. Slowly I am going from an overwhelmed, complete mess, to a tidy home and a much more realistic perspective on the standards I should expect of myself at home. A big part of that has been some of the books I’ve been reading.
This book has by far had the biggest impact on me and I highly recommend it. It is a complete house tidying and cleaning strategy based around weekly zones, 15 minute zone cleans (you know I love a 15 minute blitz) and the understanding that done is better than perfect. I listened to the audiobook and was actually organising and cleaning my house as I listened. You can also buy the paperback which I also immediately ordered once I had finished the audiobook. My great friend recommended this book to me. In fact, she had recommended it to me at least 18 months ago, but I wasn’t ready for it. However, when I decided I needed to make a change, she was the first person I contacted. I have now referred this book to numerous friends and we share with each other and motivate each other. If you do decided that now is the time to get on top of things at home, then this book is the first thing I will recommend.
This was one of the very first organising books I ever bought (my copy is from 2002) and I believe it is now somewhat of a classic. Julie gives you a clear system for how to organise your house, providing an overarching strategy and then going through your house room by room. She not only goes through the physical aspects of your home, but also the mental blocks and barriers that may be holding you back from creating a home your feel happy in.
The final book on my list is a bit of fun, and also a gorgeous book that I love having on my coffee table! I was gifted this book and I absolutely love it. Movie star and entrepreneur Reese Witherspoon shares stories, recipes, and tips to managing a home, based on learning from her grandmother growing up in the South of America. It was great fun to read, and something lovely to go back and flip through whenever you feel like it. Plus, did you know Reese also has her own clothing line?! It’s called Draper James and you can find it here.
Do you have any books that have helped you get on top of things at home? Please comment below!
Abbie Allen founded Lifestyle Elements, a personal concierge service, at the age of 23, when she saw that there was an ever increasing need to provide a practical service which supported our busy lives. 8 years on Abbie and her team have developed a service that provides a support team for people seeking greater balance in their lives. From errand running and pet care, to travel bookings and event management, Lifestyle Elements is a modern response to the dilemma of not having enough time in the day. Abbie also delivers speeches and workshops in the areas of Work Life Balance, Time Management and Women in Business. PUBLISH THIS BLOG POST – Would you like to publish this post on your blog, website or newsletter? You are welcome to share any blog posts written by Abbie Allen as long as you contact us first via email for confirmation, a link back to the original blog post is provided, along with inclusion of the above bio. If you would like an image of Abbie, please contact abbie@lifestyleelements.com.au