6 Simple Ways to Make Spring Cleaning Stress-Free
Spring cleaning is a renewing part of the year for many people. It’s the time to declutter, deep clean the house, and get things in order for the season to come.
Unfortunately, tackling some of these long-awaited projects can lead to a great deal of stress as you try to rush through your list. What can you do to make your spring cleaning experience stress-free?
Here are a few tips to help you take some of the stress out of this experience.
1. Get Everyone Involved
If you are the only person working on spring cleaning, it can take forever. Why not get the whole family involved?
Assign children to simple chores like dusting the baseboards or going through the unwanted toys in their closets. While you may still need to offer some assistance depending on their ages, this is a great way to spread out the workload.
2. Spread Out the Work
In addition to enlisting the help of your entire family, plan to make spring cleaning last for more than just one stressful weekend. Create a schedule that takes you through the entire house over two or three weeks.
This approach allows you to do other fun activities around your spring cleaning and ensures that you won’t lose steam when it comes time to declutter and clean.
3. Start Small
Try not to feel overwhelmed at the prospect of tackling the entire house all at one time. Instead, set smaller and more achievable goals. Focus on smaller rooms, junk drawers, or that overflowing hall closet first. This strategy will give you a quick and easy win that will motivate you to keep going.
4. Make a List
It’s easy to get sidetracked by secondary tasks when you try to tackle your spring cleaning. Make lists of what you hope to accomplish by the time you are finished. You can break down each of those goals into manageable chunks. This structure allows you to see the full scope of what needs to be done.
5. Be Realistic About Goals
Spring cleaning may tempt you to set audacious goals initially, but try to be realistic about what you can do on your own or in your allotted time frame.
If the basement needs to be deep cleaned and decluttered, it might take you more than a single weekend. Evaluate whether your goals and timelines are realistic to prevent frustration later on.
6. Try to Have Fun
Not many people look forward to the prospect of spring cleaning, but you can do your best to set the stage to have a good time. Open the windows to get fresh air circulating in the house, turn on your favorite party music, and nourish yourself with your favorite snacks as a reward for a job well done.
There’s no reason you can’t have a little fun while trying to get your house back into order.
Don’t Delay Your Spring Cleaning
Spring cleaning resets your home for the rest of the year, so try not to delay getting started as the weather turns nicer. These tips should help you take the first steps toward a successful spring cleaning this year!
How Young Is Too Young to Start Investing?
The financial community faces a growing rift between older and younger investors. CNBC reports that only one in four millennials have invested in the stock market, citing fears of financial instability and a lack of cash.
Meanwhile, young adults have begun dabbling in investment apps such as Robinhood. Unfortunately, many lack the maturity or strategy needed for success.
It’s important to teach rising generations how to invest. But how young is too young to start investing? Let’s explore the legal answer to this question, then offer some practical advice.
Is It Legal for Kids to Invest in Stocks?
To invest in the stock market, you must be at least 18 years or older, though many states ask that investors be as old as 21.
That doesn’t mean that young people can’t invest. Many brokers allow parents to open something called a “custodial account.” This approach means that the parent or guardian can buy, sell, or trade stocks on behalf of their child or children.
How Young Is Too Young?
Every parent will have to make their own choice about when to start teaching their kids to invest. It may be practical to wait until your child is 8 or 9. This approach ensures they have some basic analytical skills to help them make decisions. It also gives them time to watch their investments grow.
In other words, start young. Remember: with a custodial account, you’ll stay in control. This setup can be a great way to guide your child in their journey so that they can take the reins after they come of age.
What Investment Strategies Should Young People Pursue?
Younger investors should focus on the “fundamentals” of investing, including:
- A diverse portfolio
- Buy-and-hold stocks for long-term investment
- Careful monitoring of investments
For example, you might consider a well-balanced mutual fund or ETF. These investment vehicles are cost-effective and safer than selecting individual growth stocks.
Consider All Your Investment Options
We’ve focused on the stock market, but young people can also consider CDs or savings bonds. Young people will likely be unable to invest in tangible property like real estate. But parents might still discuss these vehicles so that young people can consider every option.
Talk the Talk
One way to help new investors is to discuss your own investment strategy with them. Be open about your investments and what your goals are. Your kids will absorb more than you realize, and these conversations can help them form their own strategies later in life.
Check the Apps
Stock market investing has become easier than ever due to the recent explosion of apps. But parents should monitor these apps closely. Young people can get swept up in the adrenaline rush of investing and lack the maturity to make wise choices.
It’s Never Too Late
You may be reading this and wondering if you missed the boat. But it’s never too late or too early to start investing — no matter what age you are!
Calling All Budding Travelers: A List of the Best Springtime Vacation Spots
Spring is one of the best times to travel. The weather is fair, nature is awakening from her frosty slumber, and everyone is ready to shake off their winter blues.
If you’re ready for a vacation, here are some of the best springtime vacation spots you should check out.
The Grand Canyon
Peak tourist times for the Grand Canyon are during the summer, so if you visit in the spring, you’ll be able to beat the crowds. Springtime is also one of the best times to hike the Grand Canyon since the daytime temperatures average anywhere in the 50s to the 80s.
The exact temperatures you face will depend on where you are in the canyon, but it’s safe to say you’ll enjoy fair weather.
National Park Week happens in April when admission fees are waived at the Grand Canyon and every other national park. If you’re looking for a vacation adventure that won’t put a huge dent in your wallet, the Grand Canyon in April is ideal!
San Diego
San Diego has a lot to offer for vacationers. You have ocean views, proximity to national parks, and lovely nature displays like the Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch.
The weather in San Diego during the spring is mild and enjoyable, but it won’t be warm enough for swimming. San Diego is also home to mouth-watering local eateries, so it’s a great vacation spot for foodies!
Sedona
During springtime, Sedona’s red rocks and vibrant desert vegetation are at their peak. Sedona is known for more than 200 hiking trails that are pleasant and comfortable during spring, thanks to the nice weather.
Plus, local festivals and fairs pick up in the spring, like the Sedona Yoga Festival.
Yellowstone
Like the Grand Canyon, planning a trip to Yellowstone during National Park Week can get you free admission!
Springtime in Yellowstone is when the snow melts and baby animals begin their first explorations across the beautiful terrain. If you love wildlife, Yellowstone is the perfect vacation spot because you’ll be able to see everything from trout to bears.
New Orleans
For a fun cultural experience, check out New Orleans. Visiting in the spring means you get to beat the crazy Mardi Gras crowds while still enjoying all of the things New Orleans has to offer.
Weather in the spring fluctuates between the low 70s and high 80s and is bright and sunny. This city is another great vacation spot for foodies since New Orleans is known for its savory and cultural cuisines.
Miami
Miami is a great vacation destination for travelers who want to swim and relax on the beach!
The city has several different beaches to accommodate travelers’ styles. Travelers who love nightlife should check out Miami’s south beaches, while those looking for quieter or more family-friendly fun will feel right at home at North Beach.
Heading into downtown Miami, you can experience cultural diversity and find lots of fun foods to keep you happy!