Confession: I am not a spring cleaner.

Clarification: Nor am I a summer, fall or winter cleaner. I’m more what I’d describe as a “make things less dirty as needed” cleaner. And I’m okay with that. I find myself most motivated to do “real” cleaning when we’re having company OR if I’m working on a writing project. That’s when I become inexplicably drawn to cleaning out the refrigerator or scrubbing the bathtub. Go figure.

My adorable dust bunnies, consider these simple tips to put some spring back in your writing space:

• Set a new schedule. It stays light later, so maybe now is a good time to shift to writing after dinner or in the cool of the early evening outdoors.
• Rearrange your desk. Take everything off (the desk, silly, not yourself!) and start anew. Dust, dust, dust. Lemony fresh!
• Now that you have a clean space — maybe invest in some pretty new folders or notepads or pens. Refill your treat drawer. Add a cushier cushion to your chair.
• Post a new inspirational quote. Why not put it in a cute frame too?
• While you’re at it, clear your virtual desktop too. Create folders and makes sense.
• Wash the window in your office (or wherever your writing space may be). You don’t need to go crazy and wash ALL your windows. Throw up the sash. Let spring inside.
• Add a fresh scent to your office with essential oils or air freshener.
• Clear away mental cobwebs with a brisk walk or bike ride.
• Register for a new-to-you writing workshop, seminar, class or retreat.
• Interview your current projects. Does “someone” need to be let go? Is there a story that deserves a promotion?
• Do something to encourage a fellow writer. Send them a text or email or card. Ask them to go to the aforementioned workshop with you. Find out if they’d like another set of eyes on their work in progress.
• Update your professional expenses log now before it’s late fall and becomes a much bigger chore.

My theory on housework is, if the item doesn’t multiply, smell, catch fire, or block the refrigerator door, let it be. No one else cares. Why should you? ~ Erma Bombeck