Image Credit: McCready

Home ownership is rewarding, but with the reward comes a long list of additional responsibilities. Yard work and home improvement projects are high on my list of most procrastinated chores. (I also hate making appointments of any kind, but that is for different reasons altogether.) It’s not that I hate working outside or dread the amount of work that most home improvement chores seem to require. What it really comes down to is time.

As an example, in the summer it can be hard to block out even two hours to mow, especially when it’s so hot that those two hours consume all the energy left for the day. I’ve discovered, and it probably isn’t a shocking revelation to some, that if I divide my yard up into thirds the chore becomes manageable. I dread the chore less, even if it has to be performed more often. Yes, the additional work of pulling out the mower is a pain, but not losing the rest of the afternoon to heat exhaustion is well worth that price.

Don’t worry, this has broader applications than just my own yard. Look at the projects you’ve been procrastinating.

Why have you been procrastinating?

• Too time intensive
• Too labor intensive
• Too expensive

Many home improvement projects are not as all or nothing as they appear at first glance. Even if you plan to hire a contractor or other professional to tackle a project, it’s a good idea to sit down with pen and paper and plan the project before talking to the professional. A little planning can go a long way toward ensuring a project is completed as  expected.

Going through the planning process also may reduce the overall cost of a project.

Be sure to set completion time frames for each of the steps in the project or you may find projects linger forever.

Outlining the process gives you a chance to spot aspects of the job that do not need a professional skillset to accomplish. Realize that many projects do not have to be completed in a day or even a weekend. No, it’s not fun to live with a half-wallpapered bathroom or walk on sub-flooring while waiting for the chance to install hardwood. Reassure yourself it’s a temporary stage in your journey as a home owner.

Good luck on your next project.