It’s been a busy time in our office since 2018 became a reality. It seems the New Year’s resolution to clean up and get organized has impelled folks to address issues in their home.  Personally, I’m more inclined to believe that the rough winter we’re having has forced us to be home more and face our demons.  In addition, the growing trend to downsize and relocate on Long Island or elsewhere has forced many to look at the appearance and condition of the place in which they live with an eye toward improvement.
               
Of course, as a designer for over four decades, I know how valuable the place we call “home” is to our health, self-image and focus, as well as often times our largest financial asset.  “The chickens don’t come home to roost,” however, until the real estate agent comes to your home and tells you like it is – warts and all.  But whether you’re staying or going, smart homeowners realize that the value of their property is in the enjoyment of it while it is theirs – not just when they plan to sell.
               
So – dear reader, perhaps now’s the time – and the season – to give your home the “face lift” or renovation its been silently begging for and you know is needed.  Granted time is always our enemy, and the project may seem overwhelming (perhaps because its long overdue) but in this designer’s world, we do it every day!  Since I’m a big believer in sharing, here are my thoughts on you getting started:

To Renovate or Decorate:

• Do you want to replace in the same space or look to expand?
• Do you want to retain a general contractor or hire individual trades whom you will supervise?
• Would you benefit from the services of a designer or architect?
• What should you plan on purchasing?
• How will you prepare realistic budget options?

 
Before Your Renovation Project:

• Discuss needs and wishes to determine whether you want to undertake a major or minor project and inquire about funding.  If major renovation, will you move out or get storage pods, if needed?  
• List your priorities before you call in the professionals (designer, architect, contractor) and look at magazines, internet, and homes in the neighborhood etc. for ideas.  
• Interview professionals if you need help and before you hire, get references and then make your final decision.  
• Start with the interior designer and get space plan alternatives.  
• Now bring in the architect for construction drawings.  
• Check out building codes and determine who will file plans.  
• Give all contractors the same final plans to bid.  
• Compare bids and prices for what’s included and time frame to complete.  
• Schedule payments based on accomplished work.  

And most of all – IF YOU NEED HELP, ASK FOR IT!!

​January has come and gone along with the designated "Clutter Control" month. Don't let yourself get detoured.  Here's some food for thought...  

Remember Why You Want to De-Clutter!
If the path to your goal is bumpier than you anticipated, it can feel like a sign to stop.  If you start feeling defeated, stop and remember why you wanted this goal in the first place. How will your life, relationships or business be better when you've achieved your goal? Create a compelling list of reasons, and then pick yourself up and move forward.
 
Recognize Your Points of Control.
You've created the perfect plan for your goal. You mapped everything out...but then things didn't go as planned. Recognize that plans are imperfect. There is no possible way to predict every bump and turn along the way to your goal. But, it is highly likely that you will encounter obstacles, speed bumps and detours. When you do, ask yourself this question: Is this in my control or not? Identify your points of control, and then take action on those areas. Don't beat yourself up over things that are outside of your control. Identify what you can control, and then, get busy taking action in those areas.

Let Go of Deadline Pressure.
If you're doing something for the very first time, you can't possibly know how long it is going to take. While common goal-setting suggests you should set a deadline for your goals, there are times when it is better NOT to have one! Sometimes deadlines add to feelings of defeat, instead of fueling your motivation to succeed.

If you're feeling defeated or frustrated because your goal deadline has come and gone without your goal accomplished, let go of that pressure. Instead of focusing on a set date to finish your goal, carve out a set amount of time daily or weekly to make progress on your goal. When you consistently spend time making progress towards your goal, the finishing will fall into place.

Surround Yourself with Supportive People.
Sometimes we really need someone else to pick us up, dust us off and help us get our feet pointed back in the right direction. Seek out people who will support you on your goal journey. Surround yourself with people who will remind you how far you've come...and let you know that you've come too far to quit now. You simply don' t need any doubters in your camp right now.