Do you ever feel stuck when trying to decide on a direction for a room? I do. If you want to make progress on a space this month, consider the ideas below as both inspiration and permission to choose. The decision doesn’t have to be perfect or permanent—especially for organizing or decorating tasks, it can be a temporary step forward.
When I’m indecisive, I often create a deadline for myself. Knowing guests are coming or setting a personal timeline helps me treat a room as “finished” enough to move on. That sense of completion lets me stop overthinking and actually enjoy the space.
For me, “finished” means getting certain things done quickly: clearing the clutter, removing items that don’t belong, and addressing the one thing that bothers me most about the room. I focus on what I can reasonably accomplish this month, not on an idealized long-term outcome.
Be realistic about your time, budget, and abilities. If painting the entire room feels overwhelming and the current paint is fine for now, delay it. If you want to paint but can’t decide on the perfect shade, pick one and remember “it’s only paint.” If you can’t settle on an ultimate bedding style, choose a look for the season—call it your “winter look”—and give yourself permission to change it later.
If perfectionism or procrastination is holding you back from tasks you really want done, set a few goals with deadlines or rewards to motivate yourself. Small incentives and clear timeframes help you complete projects without letting them linger indefinitely.
Give yourself permission to make design decisions so you can move forward!
I’m following my own advice as I tackle my bedroom as part of the A Lovely January challenge. Working within a budget and focusing on a few meaningful changes has made the room feel more complete and more like us. I’m not doing everything at once, but the progress is inspiring.
JOIN US FOR A LOVELY JANUARY!
Join us for A Lovely January by choosing one room to make progress on this month. Focus on small, achievable changes—decluttering, rearranging, or adding a few new touches—and celebrate the forward motion. Sharing your work with others can be motivating and fun.
It’s been wonderful to see projects and progress in our community. Keep sharing your ideas and updates—your efforts encourage others and create momentum for everyone involved.
I’ll be sharing my bedroom update soon. I’m excited about a statement piece I ordered and a simple project we’re installing now. The room is moving in a direction I love, and I can’t wait to show it.
More Inspiration:
4 Important First Steps to Take When Designing a Room
How to Find Your Style (+ Favorite Design Books)
The Most Regrettable Design Mistake You Can Make
How to Decorate: Browse Inspiration Room by Room
Browse our Style Tips blog posts