As the calendar flips to January, many of us are busy crafting New Year’s resolutions.  But for me, it’s not about fitness goals or diet plans—it’s about home project goals. Each year, I take this time to reflect on how my living spaces can better serve my life and family.  If you’re ready to tackle your home to-do list, let’s dive into how I decide what to tackle first and how you can do the same.

Start with What Bothers You Most

Every home has those small, nagging issues that weigh on your mind. Maybe it’s a squeaky floorboard, a cluttered closet, or an outdated kitchen backsplash. For me, the first project of the year is always the one that bugs me the most. These projects tend to bring the biggest relief when completed—it’s like clearing mental clutter.

Take a moment to list out the things that irritate you about your home. Which of these is quick and easy to fix? Which ones require a bit more effort but will bring peace of mind? Prioritize these projects to start the year on the right foot.

Look Ahead at Your Life

Once the nagging issues are addressed, I shift my focus to what’s coming up in my life. Are there events or changes that require a more functional or updated space? For example:

Thinking about how your home can support your goals and lifestyle changes is a great way to choose projects that have lasting benefits.

Reimagine Underutilized Spaces

Next, I evaluate whether there are any spaces in my home that aren’t pulling their weight. That empty corner in the living room? It could be a cozy reading nook. The garage that’s more clutter than car storage? Perhaps it’s time for a clean-out and reorganization.

Ask yourself: Are there areas in my home that could serve a new purpose? A fresh perspective can turn forgotten spaces into valuable assets.

Plan Realistically

With so many ideas buzzing around, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Start by choosing one or two projects to focus on. Make a list of what you’ll need, set a budget, and schedule time to make it happen. Breaking projects into smaller steps can make even the most daunting tasks manageable.

Celebrate Your Progress

Finally, don’t forget to celebrate your wins! Whether it’s a freshly painted wall or a fully revamped guest room, take pride in what you’ve accomplished. Each project brings you closer to a home that truly works for you.

Here’s to a New Year filled with progress, creativity, and a home that you love even more. Cheers to your home project goals—let’s make them happen!

Need a Little Inspiration?

If you’re feeling stuck or need help brainstorming your next project, give me a call (630) 640-5494.  I’d love to help you find the perfect inspiration to make your home goals a reality.  Let’s create something amazing together!


Home Staging by Lisa – is a trusted partner in the Chicago Western Suburbs for home staging and decorating. They specialize in helping agents and their clients achieve optimal returns on investment, while also offering homeowners a personalized redesign service to create spaces they love coming home to. Servicing Chicagoland areas of Addison, Bartlett, Bensenville, Berwyn, Bloomingdale, Bolingbrook, Brookfield, Burr Ridge, Carol Stream, Clarendon Hills, Countryside, Darien, Downers Grove, Elmhurst, Geneva, Glen Ellyn, Glendale Heights, Hanover Park, Hinsdale, Lagrange, Lombard, Lisle, Naperville, Oakbrook, Oakbrook Terrace, Oak Park, Roselle, St. Charles, Streamwood, Villa Park, Warrenville, Western Springs, Westmont, Wheaton, Winfield.