Today we are talking about home renovation stress. As an interior designer of over 25 years I have assisted many clients through the stress of remodeling. Here are my tips on how to survive the stress of remodeling your home.
Oh the joys of remodeling. Whether you’re doing the work yourself, with friends and/or family or your blessed with a sub or contractor, remodeling can be overwhelming, frustrating and scary.
Renovation anxiety is a real thing so don't feel bad if you have a breakdown but instead keep reading because here are some things I have said and done with my clients that have helped them through their renovation process.
Home Renovation Stress
The very first time I did a bathroom remodel after I got married I was so excited. I purchased some paint and started painting the trim in a small bathroom a dark burgundy color.
I think I just dated myself, yes; this was the early 90’s.
So, I slapped the paint on the trim because I knew I was planning to put wallpaper up and it would hide the color on the walls. I had been working all day just painting the trim color and cabinets when my hubby came home and had a look of horror on his face.
I was shocked when he questioned my talent.
Oh, the tears started and I was hurt. But after I stopped reacting I realized that he didn’t know about the wallpaper. Needless to say after it was all completed he was so proud of our beautiful bathroom that whenever people would come to visit he had to give them a tour of the newly remodeling guest bath.
Now let's look at all the ways I have encouraged and helped my clients with the stress of remodeling.
Finish the Project Before Stressing
If you see something that is alarming or not exactly the way you imagined it don’t jump to conclusions or get anxious. Most jobs turn out pretty much as you imagined or better.
Whenever, work is under construction, it looks like a mess and can make you feel anxious. Take a deep breath and ask some questions just to make sure. Whoever is doing the work won’t mind questions as long as you don’t doubt their talent.
Remember a room won’t feel like home until the last accessory goes in.
Don't Doubt Yourself
Most people start doubting what they have picked out early in the remodel. I always say finish the job.
It’s hard to imagine what the room will look like when everything is a mess and there are no pictures on the wall or window treatments. Colors change once the room is completely finished.
Refrain From Perfection
This is one area where I see people get robbed of the joy of decorating. I love when a plan works out perfect but I don’t recall ever doing a design job where at least one challenge didn’t arise.
Make plans now for something to happen that you did not anticipate. If nothing happens then you will be overjoyed. If something does occur then you won’t lose your excitement because you were anticipating it.
Embrace What You Love
If there is one thing that will take away the home renovation stress it is focusing on what decorations make you happy. Keep your eyes on this.
If you think about what others will think it can cause you renovation stress.
If thoughts of what others will think creep into your mind think picture in your home doing something fun in your newly renovated room. For example if you are renovating your living room think about sitting in a chair in the corner with a cozy blanket, a cup of warm coffee reading a book.
Think about what you have to look forward to instead of worrying about what will go wrong.
Final Thoughts
Well this is just a few tips on decorating psychology. I hope your project turns out beautifully both physically and mentally.
Oh, and don’t forget to show your gratitude to those who are helping or working for you. It means a lot to them.
Now that we are ready to tackle a project or two here are other blog posts that will help you get started.
- 12 Best Home Decor Magazines (I like to begin planning her or Pinterest for inspirations)
- Where to Buy Behr Paint (After your inspiration and planning is done check out paint color by Behr)
- If you need to read more about home renovation stress here is a good article by Real Simple magazine.
Thanks for reading this post and good luck on your home renovation. Trust me when I say you got this and it will turn out beautiful. Now let go of that home renovation stress and enjoy creating a lovely home.
Happy Decorating!
