Life coach and author, Martha Beck, has some solutions that I think sound pretty promising. Perhaps they'll help you, too!
1. Wake up to compassion, gratitude, etc. Ms. Beck says that the first thing she sees every morning when she opens her eyes is a figurine of Kuan Yin, the Chinese goddess of compassion. There are other symbols that you may choose; Mother Mary, Mother Teresa, Buddha, St. Francis of Assisi, to name just a few. The idea, really, is to let your subconscious help you decorate. Your subconscious has a gift of knowing what you need way before you do.
2. Have a grand vision. Start a vision board. A cork board, prominently placed, where you can post pictures of the grand vision you have for yourself and your perfect life. Maybe that vision includes a lovely little cottage with a rose garden or a small pied a terre in Paris. Perhaps your vision includes a world cruise or packpacking across Europe. The point is to place your vision squarely in front of you where you won't lose sight of it. Giving attention to your dreams energizes them and helps turn them into reality .So, after saying good morning to Kuan Yin (or whomever you choose), gaze for a few moments at your vision board. And when your vision comes true, and it ill when it's right there in front of you everyday, feel free to post your next grand vision. Isn't it good to know that we're allowed more than one grand vision in our lifetime? PS But don't post another vision too quickly. Take time to truly absorb the miracle of the one that just happened!
3. Look to your Spirit Guides. These are inspirational books, poetry, and even books on art collections that moves you. Spend a few minutes reading a page or two, reciting your favorite poem, or admiring beautiful works of art by your favorite masters. Whatever lifts your spirit, calms you down, and makes you feel safe. Think of these books as "your perfect paper parents."
4. Love Pictures. Somewhere, placed on shelf in the center of your home (or lily pad) place photographs of those you love; family, friends, your pet(s). Keep adding to your collection. Don't bother about uncluttering. This is one time where less isn't more. More is actually more. These are just pictures of people (and or pets) they represent the love you feel for them. Even if they no longer feel the same way abut you. that's OK. It's all about love and gratitude.
5. Appreciate your menagerie. Nature is wonderful and filled with beautiful wildlife. The critters who live in nature are living, breathing beings who inhabit your space, passing in and out of your world, every day. They can be squirrels, deer, birds, bees, horses (and frogs of course)...even your beloved pet dog and cat. The way these creatures enjoy life is a wonderful reminder of how to live in present moment awareness. Each of us needs to be like these animals; "playing, resting, feasting, cuddling, rambling, and rejoicing" says Martha Beck. Animals know how to make the most out of life without trying, it's simply who they are. And who we can be, too.
When you look around your home, is it a self-portrait; a reflection of who you truly are? Do the things around you spark happiness? If not, you don't need to throw everything out. Pick one area and work on personalizing it. When that space is finished, move on to the next. And before you know it, you've got a home that's really home. It will invite joy, compassion, gratitude, and a sense of being uplifted...not only to you but to all those who enter.
I can't wait to begin decorating my new home. I'm not going to really give it much though, though, because my subconscious already knows what I need and what will make me happy. You might say that my mind is the Martha Stewart residing inside of me....just waiting for a chance to beautify my new surroundings and make it truly Home Sweet Home.