Making a Messy RV into a Home: Progress Journal #1
I decided to start making a journal of my journey here to hopefully become better at keeping up the house and I will try to update as much as I can. Plus trying my best to make this Rv feel more comfortable long term and slow down at trying to live my life:
I have struggled with major depression, chronic fatigue and pain, and the need to work for money for a year or two now. I have always lived with mine or my ex's family and this has been the first year to be living on my own, paying rent, etc. I work mainly overnights in 12 hour shifts, so when I am home I normally spend most of that time trying to get enough sleep.
Even though she wasn't really realizing the severity of my issues before, she and my father ended up having to come to my house to help with a leak in my plumbing and... well let's just say she's wanting me to get on better meds and is helping me out a little bit. Especially with the colder months, she's giving me ideas to keep the RV warm.
I have always struggled with keeping my room clean no matter how hard I worked at it. I am naturally sloppier than I probably should be as a young adult, but it's hard for me to push through and get some things done when there are many other things that need to be taken care of and 'putting my self first' sometimes I forget that keeping your house clean IS doing something for yourself. Not to mention, I have had hoarders in my family, so I would not be surprised if I had the "hoarder gene" or picked up bad habits that to me were "normal".
So here is the first step of doing just that, Making my house feel like something besides a place to sleep after a 12 hour shift, and a place I would be happy to bring friends, family, and even potential suitors (lol) to, one step at a time, as well as growing better habits as growing as a person...
To Do list for tonight:
🔲 Pick up Trash from every part of the house, and gather it to be taken to the dumpster in the daylight.
🔲Put all dirty laundry in a bucket to be done tomorrow or asap.
🔲Clean Bird Cage of Poop and give fresh water.
🔲 Shred Unneeded papers & organize art and office supplies.
🔲Put all "Car Accessories" Together in a box or bag.
A short list to start with tonight, but I am sore from work and trying to do something at least. Please feel free to give your best cleaning tips and what not, I need them!
Starting a journey to make a messy RV feel like home is both a practical and emotional process. From dealing with the clutter that accumulates after long work shifts to facing mental health challenges, every step matters. One key piece of advice for anyone embarking on this path is to approach cleaning as a form of self-care rather than just a chore. Setting small, manageable goals—like gathering trash, organizing car accessories, or cleaning a bird cage—can make a big difference in building momentum. Maintaining cleanliness in an RV also requires adapting to its unique spaces and limitations. For example, managing laundry in a small space often involves scheduling regular wash times and using compact storage solutions. Keeping important items like papers and office supplies organized helps reduce stress and creates a more inviting atmosphere. Moreover, addressing structural issues, such as leaks in plumbing, is essential not only for comfort but also for sustaining the RV’s condition over time. When cold months arrive, maximizing warmth inside the RV becomes crucial. Simple strategies such as using thermal curtains, sealing drafts, and layering bedding can significantly improve comfort. Support from family or friends who understand these challenges can provide helpful ideas and moral encouragement. Acknowledging the impact of personal habits, including those possibly influenced by family history, can provide insight into why maintaining cleanliness feels difficult. It’s important to be patient with oneself and recognize that progress is a step-by-step process. Sharing experiences, asking for cleaning tips, and seeking advice from others who live in RVs or small spaces builds a supportive community. Ultimately, transforming an RV into a home means creating a welcoming environment where you can recharge, entertain loved ones, and grow personally. It’s not just about tidying a space but nurturing your well-being and finding joy in small improvements day by day.