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Avoiding Remodeling Stress Syndrome
Now entertain conjecture of a time midway through your remodeling project. Perhaps you have chosen to experience a kitchen remodel. Dust partitions separate the work area from the rest of the house, yet you found construction dust in the far reaches of your home where no work is going on. Microwave dinners no longer have the appeal they once did. Washing dishes in the bathtub or basement sink is a hassle. The project has been delayed because moisture ant infestation causing structural damage was recently discovered. You are late for a very important business meeting at work. You cannot find your shoes and your car won’t start. All of a sudden you have reached your limit and you lash out upon your spouse, “You wanted to do this remodel, I wanted to take a vacation instead.”
You are now suffering from a common ailment called RSS Remodeling Stress Syndrome.
The fact of the matter is that you have lost sight of the romantic image of what will be your new kitchen, which you willingly elected to purchase. It is not fun anymore and you cannot wait until it is all over and the racket and daily occupation of your sanctuary by trades people has passed and you can get back to normal. You question, “What is normal?”
To avoid RSS, the best advise I can give a client/owner prior to and during this process is first recognize that what you are experiencing is self inflicted. And second, but most important, is to take care of yourself. Exercise, take your vitamins, pursue your hobbies, go dancing, or get a massage. Make a list prior to remodeling of weekend field trips to parks or other recreation areas and events that you will attend during construction. You can always invite yourself over to a friend or relative’s home for dinner just to get away.
Remember you have chosen to do this. While remodeling is an elective process, it can become very stressful if you allow it. You will get through it, and hopefully the value of your enhanced lifestyle will wash away the self inflicted sting of any stress you experienced.
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