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Master of Chores: Routines and other sequels.

As I posted yesterday, I've been trying to get a handle on doing chores and such. To that end, and others, I've been trying to build up routines and structure to help me remember and complete these chores.

For example, I've taken charge of the kitchen. One routine I'm trying to build is 'closing up' the kitchen at the end of night. I go through and load the dishwasher, wipe down the counters and stove and stuff, and then even wet swiffer the floor. It feels really good when I finish all that, dude, I love it.

Of course I'm still not great at consistency. Like, I forgot last night. And some other night, too, I think the one before. So routines are still a work in progress for me.

Other routines I'd like to develop include setting up and going through my to-do list for the day; a weekly laundry and bed making thing; and some manner of getting up early to shower, write, and workout before the rest of the day gets underway. Some of these are falling into place, some of these may be more difficult.

I think part of the problem is the difficulty facing habit building combined with my forgetfulness and even laziness. I mean, do you blame me?

It's one of my goals for the summer all the same. I want to get as much structure in place before the semester starts such that school and schoolwork become another routine among the other routines anchoring my day. Not too unreasonable, really.


Part of what I'm enjoying most, though, is the process of building a home. I've got my furniture in where I want it, most of the littler things and clothes put away within that framework, and I've got some system for how it all works, and now I'm hoping to develop routines to move things further--to regularly undertake the chores that will maintain this home as a home I enjoy living in and sharing with friends.

I think keeping those and other such values in mind will help give relevance and significance to my chores. Versus raw, unrepentant tedium that exists only to mar my day's enjoyment, they're really about keeping the house in an enjoyable state. Now I just gotta remember to actually do them. Sigh.
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