The other day, I was reading one of the (many) blogs I adore and flipped through the most-recent installation of the authors’ home tour. As I flipped through what is possibly the cutest closet layout ever, all I could see was green.
Why can’t my space look like that?
I read a lot of design blogs, so this isn’t the first time I’ve been jealous of someone else’s pad. To be perfectly clear, it’s not that these spaces are filled with fancy, pricy furniture. This isn’t a money thing. It’s a skill thing. Or… an “eye” thing. Their homes are so well put-together; so well-decorated.
(And of course, I’m not mentioning any of these blogs as I’m trying to avoid any “your happiness makes me sad”-esque back-handed compliment. The inspiration I take from their stylish abodes is preserved on Pinterest).
I’m not good with jealousy. I wish I was one of those people who got all fired up by other people’s accomplishments – ready to set out and make my own success. Rather, I often find myself in a spiral that starts with “their bookcase is so well-styled!” and ends with “oh, why do you even BOTHER?!”
This post is basically me trying to refocus Jealousy into Inspiration (and to remind myself of some things I already know).
1. It takes time. Without a professional decorator and a certain amount of disposable income, good design comes together over time. It evolves. Sometimes, I completely understand this. Last week, I bought a new lamp, and I was thrilled with the “big change” I feel came with this one small purchase.
Sometimes, however, this makes me insane. I want it to all look good now. Small changes are nice, but do they just highlight what else needs to be done?
2. I’m probably too hard on myself. I know this… somewhere deep in the rational part of my mind. My house does look good. Sure, some parts could be improved, but all in all, it’s a pretty nice place to live.
At the very least, I know that the homes featured in these blogs have been frantically cleaned, purposefully styled, and, at times, filled with fresh flowers to enhance their appeal. The lovely pictures that result should serve as inspiration, not as a gauge by which to measure my own domestic shortcomings.
3. My house is a home. I share it with the man (and kitties) I love, and that’s really all that matters. Cue the cheesy music all you want, it’s true.
** And yes, I bought this lovely print from Tad Carpenter on his website. I will display it with pride in my home.