I’m not gonna lie—sometimes the thought of scooping the litter box again can get me down. When I don’t want to do my daily tasks, I ask myself: Am I genuinely exhausted? Feeling under the weather? Do I need a break? If the answer is no, I know I just need to make it fun again. That’s where romanticizing homemaking comes in!

Here are five simple ways to bring a little joy and beauty into your daily tasks:

1. Pair an unpleasant chore with a lovely sensory experience

Does anyone actually enjoy cleaning the litter box? Probably not. But I make it more bearable by lighting a favorite candle beforehand or spritzing a (pet safe) room refresher immediately after. It’s a small touch that turns a not-so-fun task into a moment of indulgence.

2. Envision the calm that comes afterward

Is there anything better at the end of a long day than sitting in a clean, quiet kitchen, just catching your breath? The empty sink, the freshly wiped counters, the coffeemaker set for tomorrow morning… Ahh, perfection. Thinking about how good it will feel when you’re done can be just the motivation you need to get started.

3. Use cleaning products you love

It’s so worth it to invest in cleaning products that work well and smell amazing. A fresh, clean scent can transform a task from mundane to enjoyable. Some of my favorites? Mrs. Meyer’s lavender multi-purpose cleaner, classic Pine-Sol, and Sal’s Suds.

4. Create a “cleaning uniform”

For deep cleaning days, having a designated outfit makes all the difference. Maybe it’s a breezy house dress with an apron, a black tee with ultra-soft leggings, or even a cute, comfy set of scrubs (honestly, that sounds heavenly for a big cleaning session). Dressing the part adds a little extra motivation!

5. Treat yourself as a homemaker

Fresh flowers on the counter. That one special bread for your avocado toast. Microfiber cloths in your favorite color. Small luxuries that make daily life feel just a little more special. Whenever my budget allows, I like to grab a few bunches of flowers at Harris Teeter to make arrangements for the house—it’s a simple joy that lifts my whole space.

At the end of the day, homemaking isn’t about achieving perfection—it’s about creating a home that feels good to live in. A little beauty, a little ritual, a little indulgence… it all adds up to a life well-loved.