How can you cure your own laziness?
Break down your desired efforts into very small and achievable components, such as "open and categorize today's mail," "clean the inside of the car" or (on a weekend) "pack up one box for donation." Make a list and check off each item after completion. (Checking boxes off a list is surprisingly satisfying.
Flylady.net is a favorite starting point for many people seeking transformation through baby steps. Flylady says to start by cleaning and shining your kitchen sink.
Make your bed. Even if your bedroom is a mess, and even if you don't achieve much else, your bed will be a pristine and clean space each day.
You are very good at working hard to please others. So plan to have company over for coffee or a meal. Knowing that someone will be in your home will inspire (force) you to tidy, clean, and prepare.
Join a group. For me, singing with a local choir once a week helped to shake loose the inertia in the rest of my life.
Use a "buddy" to inspire and hold you accountable. Walking with a friend right after work a few times a week will give you more energy to face the challenge at home.
There's an app for that: A fitness wristband and/or fitness app will help you to see your progress in real terms.
I'm sure readers will want to help. I'll run suggestions in future columns.
Dear Amy: While eating a quick lunch in a fast-food restaurant, a prosperous couple in their early 30s arrived with two infants. The mother immediately wiped the tabletop with a baby wipe, then placed a changing pad on the table. She went to get food and instructed the dad to change the babies' diapers on top of the dining table.
He did, mumbling "sorry," to me. I basically fled the scene. Amy, this baby's bottom was literally inches away from my meal.
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