One task I genuinely dislike is cleaning my shower. It’s an onerous chore, especially with a glass door that accumulates soap scum, water stains, and other blemishes over time. The floor and walls aren’t spared either. However, I discovered a small habit that has elevated my shower-cleaning routine and made my life significantly easier.

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The Inspiration

The change began while watching a YouTube video on cleaning tips. The YouTuber suggested dedicating a few minutes after each shower to perform minor cleaning tasks. Whether it’s squeegeeing the shower, wiping down the sink and vanity, or cleaning the toilet, these small actions collectively result in a cleaner bathroom with minimal effort. Intrigued by this idea, I decided to start by developing the habit of soft cleaning my shower after each use.

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The Power of Habits

Habits are powerful because they free up our mental resources, allowing the brain to focus on problem-solving and creativity. When actions become habitual, they require less thought and effort, making it easier to maintain a clean and organized environment. Establishing effective habits necessitates a concrete action plan—being specific about what, when, and where.

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My Plan of Action

To make this habit stick, I devised a clear plan. After finishing my shower routine, I use my drying towel to dry the shower glass, floor, and walls. This routine helps reduce soap scum and water stain buildup between deep cleans, keeping the shower cleaner for longer periods.

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Implementation Intention

Implementation intention, a concept discussed in “Atomic Habits” by James Clear, involves specifying the time and location for a specific behavior. For my new habit, my implementation intention was: “When I finish my after-shower routine, I will use my drying towel to dry the shower glass, floor, and walls.” This simple action takes only 1-2 minutes but has significantly improved maintaining a clean shower.

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Tips for Building Your Habits

• Make a Plan: Decide when and where your positive habits will occur. Be specific about what you want to achieve and how you will do it.
• Be Clear: Clearly outline what you should be doing. Having a detailed plan makes it easier to follow through.
• Start Small: Begin with a small, easy-to-maintain habit. Gradually, these small actions will lead to bigger changes.

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Conclusion

Establishing the habit of soft cleaning my shower after each use has been remarkably beneficial. Not only does it keep my shower looking clean, but it also reduces the need for frequent deep cleaning sessions. By making a specific plan and committing to a simple action, I’ve maintained a cleaner bathroom with minimal effort.

Remember, habits are powerful tools to help you achieve your goals and maintain a clean and organized environment. Start small, be specific, and watch as these little changes transform your daily routine.

Have you built any small habits lately? Let me know in the comments!

With a cleaner shower,

Tamera