Listen to the podcast: https://anchor.fm/meghan-greenwood/episodes/Dust-Bunny-Sanctuary-e1hv6oh

When is the last time you sat on your couch? I mean, really sat? Being constantly inundated with work, chores, and caretaking, it can be really hard to relax, especially in a residence that needs attention and upkeep. As soon as my butt hits the cushion, I see a pillow out of place or a thin film of dust on the table and its *spring* back onto my feet.

Recently, I read something that referenced the home as being a place of relaxation. A place where leisure wear is acceptable. A place where you should feel comfortable to do what you please without feeling like you’re being scrutinized.

With toys piling up around me and another messy kitchen to tidy, this seemed unattainable and unrealistic.

Why do we put so much pressure on ourselves to tidy every corner and remove every dust bunny? Sure, there is something to be said about a clean home – but does it always have to be perfect? Or can disarray feel comfortable?

If I walk into someone’s home and it’s spotless, I think to myself – wow, they have so much energy and take pride in its appearance. Most of the time I’m in awe of their decorative touches. Sometimes I wonder if anyone really resides there.

And then when I return to smudged tabletops, broken photo frames, and unmopped floors, I can’t help but feel a little less than. They’re working parents too, how do they make it all look so easy?

Hold up. Pump the brakes. Breathe.

As I was taking in my cluttered surroundings, I started thinking: This is mine. All mine. I make of it what I want. I don’t have to answer to anyone regarding what I do within these 4 walls. Haters beware.

I can sit upside down on the crumb-filled couch with my feet in the air. I can eat dripping bowls of ice cream in bed. I can take a shower with the music blasting while ignoring the walls that need scrubbed. I can push all of the toys to the side of the room and make a fantastic, plush-lined walkway. Who cares!?

If I seriously can’t relax in the mess, I can do the bare minimum and move on. I can enjoy living and stop fretting about messes that will inevitably happen again and again.

I’m not trying to win a Better Homes & Gardens contest. I’m trying to have a functional existence with the least amount of stress as possible.

A home is to be lived in.