Finding time to redecorate

For years, finances prevented us from redecorating. Living hand to mouth, every last penny went on food, the children’s activities or travel. I told myself that when we could afford to redecorate, I’d make the time. The children’s room first, then the rest of the house. Now, I’m rapidly running out of excuses. We’re finally in a position to do some work on the house, and I’m wondering where on earth I thought I’d find the extra time. So, I’ve come up with a few tweaks I can make to my daily schedule so I can at least find an extra few hours here and there to make a start. 

Weigh up the costs

There are certain things I am more than capable of doing myself when it comes to decorating. Painting, filling, sanding, moving furniture and preparing for work to be done. I’ve always said I’ll do what I can myself to cut costs, but is that really the most cost-effective way? I’m going to sit down and work out how much I’d pay for each job to be done and how long it would take me to do it. Then, if I’m turning down work in order to decorate, I need to know whether it would be more cost-effective for me to work during that time and pay someone else to do the decorating. 

Buy in bulk

Some things need replacing in every room here. There’s no point in me going to the shop or online every time I need a new light switch. I’d be much better off working out what I will need, then buying everything so it’s ready when we need it regardless of what order we do the rooms in. I can buy made to measure blinds for the whole house in one go. The carpets and flooring can be done at the same time, rather than piecemeal as we finish each room. This should save both time and money in the long run. 

Learn to say no

This is my main sticking point when it comes to freeing up time to redecorate. I’ve always been terrible at saying no, but it’s time to start. Can I do that piece of work? No, I’ve got too much on. Do I want to go out for lunch, meet up with a friend or help someone out with a legal query? Ordinarily, I’d love to. Right now, no. If you want to see me, I’ll be painting the living room, you’re welcome to join me. 

Ask for help

The jobs I do decide to do myself are ones I’m fine to do on my own. That said, everything is quicker with more than one person doing it. So, it’s time to call in some favours. There have been plenty of times in the past when I’ve helped out friends and family with things. I need to speak up say that this time, I need some help from them. 

Please do leave me a comment if you have any other ideas about how to fit in home improvements when you’re time-poor.