1. Get rid of stuff

It’s time to ditch the clutter. Ok, technically, I always encourage you to do that, but this time of year is especially important for clearing out the extra weight. Depending on your climate, you are about to spend more time indoors. And don’t you want as much breathing space as possible? So, take a few evenings or a couple weekends to dedicate to de-cluttering. Just start with the things that you know absolutely need to go. Chances are you already have a pile started.

2. Put on a sweater

When it gets cold out, one of the quickest ways to warm up, is to put another layer of clothes on. Well, you can apply the same rule to your home. Add fabric. In this case, I am referring to pillows, throw blankets, curtains, rugs or any other fabric accents. These additions have a way of quickly warming up the look of your space and making it instantly more cozy.

3. Shit or get off the pot

Yes, it’s a crass expression, but it truly embodies my position on unfinished projects. You know…all those little projects that you are going to tackle SOME day. Whether it is something that needs repairing or a creative endeavor, it’s time to take action or let it go. These projects have a way of weighing us down—leaving us feeling overwhelmed and tired just looking at them. If they are that important, deal with them. Otherwise, sometimes it’s time to just allow the best intentions to be released and move on.

4. Seasonal clothing sweep

While warm weather is still fresh in your mind, take a peek at your summer wardrobe and let go of anything that you didn’t wear this year, or anything that is just ready to move on. The end of a season can be a more freeing time to release, rather than at the front end of a season when we are envisioning the “possibility” of finally wearing that orange sundress.

5. Paint

In some regions, you can effortlessly do this year round, with lots of flowing air from open windows. But, if you are in colder areas, take the opportunity, when you still can, to throw open those windows and paint, paint, paint. The natural demands of seasonal changes are a great incentive to prioritize projects and get you moving.