Single women over 60 are traveling like never before – and loving it. With so much travel information available in print and online, planning a rewarding solo vacation is easier than ever.

Being a single woman doesn’t have to mean traveling solo all the time. There are countless trips organized each year that group people (and some even women-only) together to share activities and meals.

Here are our top 3 amazing vacations for single women over 60:

1. In the Heart of the Scottish Highlands Tour – Road Scholar offers a 13-day learning adventure in the Scottish Highlands, providing a unique and immersive experience for small groups of travelers with curated itineraries, expert historians, and a blend of legend and history, featuring light walking and inclusive meals.
2. Travel Ancient Kingdoms: Thailand, Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia – Join Overseas Adventure Travel’s 18-day Ancient Kingdoms tour, exploring Southeast Asia with a small group, experiencing local life, and delving into history, all while in reasonably good physical condition.
3. Iceland: Searching for the Northern Lights – Experience the beauty of Iceland on a captivating 8-day adventure designed specifically for women. This trip, offers an extraordinary blend of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and the chance to witness one of nature’s most spectacular phenomena – the Aurora Borealis.

Keep reading to discover the complete list of the unique travel experiences that we have curated for you.

Read more: 9 Surprising Places to Travel in 2025 for Solo Women Over 60.

Reasons Traveling Alone as a Woman Rocks

Margaret Manning, founder of Sixty & Me, tells us her reasons why traveling solo as a woman is both freeing and empowering. 

In my 50s, with my kids out of the house and my ex-husband no longer in my life, I was finally free to explore the world in my own way. So, I took textile tours in India and Myanmar. I spent several nights in the rainforests of Bali. I learned yoga, took a cooking class in Italy and spent one month traveling through Europe by train.

Every one of these adventures was precious to me. I didn’t have to compromise with anyone to make them a reality. I just followed my heart.

Travelling alone as a woman over 50 feels different. More often than not, I am the one that young people turn to for advice. Nothing makes me happier than helping someone who I meet on the road to make a business connection or form a friendship. I have paid for dinners, been a shoulder to cry on and looked after children on 4 continents.

It is so wonderful to be able to give back a little bit! As a woman over 50, you have so much to offer the world! At home, you are one of many people living a normal life. On the road, you can be a hero!

When you travel alone, you are forced to face yourself. Sometimes the little girl that you find on the inside is fearful or timid. Other times, she is surprisingly brave and energized. Either way, she is wonderfully complex and worth talking to. You just need to remove the distractions so that you can hear her tiny voice.

On my last trip to Bali, I ended up singing 1970s songs in the back of a VW bus with my fake husband Alex. If that description sounds fascinating, trust me, it was much wilder in person!

I sometimes think that my kids (grown up now) are shocked by the photos I take on my trips. They would never imagine that I would receive a waterfall blessing or climb a volcano. They probably never expected to see me feed elephants at a sanctuary or learn Italian cooking.

These activities are like the pieces of my soul – diverse, complex, curious and wild. I hope that I will continue to travel alone as a woman well into my 80s.

Read more: The Ultimate Guide to Solo Travel for Women over 50.

Amazing Vacations for Single Women

#1: Road Scholar’s In the Heart of the Scottish Highlands Tour

Road Scholar offers learning adventures where itineraries are perfectly curated to give the most immersive and educational experience to groups of travelers.

Discover what makes the Scottish Highlands one of Europe’s most unique natural wonders, as you learn the history of ancient lochs, clan lands, castles and glens. Let historians guide you on the Road Scholar’s 13 days In the Heart of the Scottish Highlands tour, where legend blends with history and that is sure to make you step back in time.

This is a small group with light walking, nothing too strenuous. The trip includes 11 breakfasts, 10 lunches, and 11 dinners.

“Seeing so many places and learning so much in a relatively short time and in such a comfortable and well-organized way is what Road Scholar does best and this trip was everything I hoped it would be and more.” —Nancy, Marysville, CA

#2: Overseas Adventure Travel’s Ancient Kingdoms: Thailand, Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia

Visiting Asia with a tour group doesn’t have to be intimidating. Overseas Adventure Travel’s 18-day Ancient Kingdoms tour takes you to Bangkok, Luang Prabang, Vientiane, Ho Chi Minh City, Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Angkor Wat with a small group.

Explore the Mekong River by boat, experience a tuk-tuk ride and learn about life in a floating village and a Hmong home. Visit the Killing Fields and Vietnamese tunnels used by the Viet Cong and gain insights into the southeast Asian conflicts that tore countries and families apart.

You must be in reasonably good physical condition to take this trip; you’ll be on the go for several hours each day and will need to be able to navigate uneven terrain and staircases.

This tour sells out quickly, possibly because OAT does not charge a single supplement on the Ancient Kingdoms tour. Airfare, visa fees, some gratuities, optional tours, some lunches and some dinners not included.

“Thrilling dream retirement trip!

I cannot say enough about this trip! So enjoyed learning about different peoples and cultures. OAT really shines! And I especially like the side stops where local people were plying their trades. Weaving baskets, harvesting, cinnamon, hunting, tarantulas for the market, pounding rice to make rice noodles. All fascinating, enlightening, and humblinRead more about review stating Thrilling dream retirement trip!g. Not to mention visiting, Angkor Wat! The accommodations were great, and the food wonderful. I highly recommend this trip!” —Ann K.

#3: Iceland: Searching for the Northern Lights

Experience the beauty of Iceland on a captivating 8-day adventure designed specifically for women. This trip, “Iceland: Searching for the Northern Lights,” offers an extraordinary blend of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and the chance to witness one of nature’s most spectacular phenomena – the Aurora Borealis.

The trip begins in Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital, where you’ll explore the city’s highlights, including the iconic Hallgrímskirkja Church and the Old Harbour. From there, the adventure takes you through the spectacular landscapes of the Golden Circle, featuring stops at the Gullfoss Waterfall and the geothermal marvels of Geysir.

A highlight of this trip is the opportunity to chase the Northern Lights. You’ll venture into Iceland’s rural regions, far from city lights, to maximize your chances of seeing the dancing lights in the sky. With expert local guides, you’ll learn about the science behind the Northern Lights and the folklore that surrounds them.

Throughout the trip, you’ll stay in charming, comfortable accommodations, including countryside lodges that offer a cozy retreat after days filled with exploration. Other activities include hiking on a glacier, soaking in the soothing waters of the Blue Lagoon, and exploring ice caves. Each day is designed to engage you in Iceland’s unique natural beauty, with plenty of opportunities for photography and reflection.

#4: Inside Japan Tours’ Tokaido Trail

Inside Japan Tours takes a slightly different approach to small group tours. Instead of chartering buses to take tour participants from place to place, Inside Japan Tours guides show you how to use the efficient Japanese subway and rail systems and give you plenty of free time to see the sights that interest you. You’ll also be asked to carry your own luggage. In return, you’ll discover the wonders of Tokyo, Kyoto, Kamakura and Hakone on the Tokaido Trail tour.

During your time in Tokyo, you’ll explore historic Asakusa, modern Harajuku and vibrant Shinjuku. In Kamakura, you can visit shrines and temples, take a long walk through the town or stroll on the beach. From there, you will move to Hakone, at the foot of Mount Fuji. Hot springs, hiking and museums are just some of Hakone’s attractions. In Kyoto, tour the Geisha district, visit the Golden Pavilion, explore one of many UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the city or take the train to Hiroshima or Nara.

Inside Japan Tours does not charge a single supplement on the Tokaido Trail tour; solo travelers will be given single rooms in Western-style hotels, but will need to share a room with a roommate of the same gender during the two nights spent in a ryokan (traditional, Japanese-style lodgings). Airport transfers, baggage handling, entrance fees, public transportation costs, lunches and most dinners are not included.

It’s important to note that the tour demands a lot of walking and carrying your own bags, so good physical fitness is required.

“A great trip and we think we probably learned, heard and saw so much more and much less stressfully than we would have done left to our own devices!” —Fiona, United Kingdom

#5: A Do-It-Yourself Learning Vacation: Oxford University

An interesting way to spend your vacation is to learn something new! We are certainly never too old to go back to the classroom seats. Oxford University offers adults from around the world the opportunity to take one-week courses at its celebrated campus in the United Kingdom. Topics vary from year to year, but typically include creative writing, Shakespeare, philosophy, British literature and poetry.

You can apply for the program in February; early application is advisable, especially for solo travelers, as single accommodations fill very quickly. If you are accepted, you will need to complete a preliminary reading assignment and write an essay before your course begins. Further assignments will be determined by your course tutor. You’ll have time to explore the local area on your own during the week.

If you book on-campus accommodation at Rewley House, your room, board and tuition are all included in your quoted rate. You also have the option to find your own lodgings in Oxford. Airfare and ground transportation are not included.

This type of vacation is perfect for you if you are academic and curious.

#6: A Do-It-Yourself Brandywine Valley Vacation

Chemist E. I. du Pont made his fortune manufacturing gunpowder in Delaware’s Brandywine River valley, and built his Georgian mansion, Eleutherian Mills, near his powder mill on the riverbank. Today, you can tour the famous Brandywine Valley estates that belonged to succeeding generations of du Ponts.

Begin at the Hagley Museum and Gardens, where E. I. built his powder mill. Explore riverside paths and take a guided tour of Eleutherian Mills. Then, drive north to Winterthur Museum and Gardens, the most famous of the du Pont mansions. This immense estate includes 1,000 acres of gardens as well as the elegant Winterthur mansion, a showcase of the best in American decorative arts.

Continue your journey at the Nemours Mansion and Gardens. Take a guided tour of the French-style mansion and formal gardens, which are reminiscent of those at Versailles.

Finally, head across the Pennsylvania state line to Longwood Gardens. Wander through the outdoor gardens, watch a fountain show and explore the Conservatory. For deeper insight into Longwood Gardens’ history and the vision of Pierre du Pont, who created Longwood Gardens, buy a ticket for an Insider Tour or join an educational walk.

In order to make the most of your mansion and garden tours, plan to spend a night or two in a Brandywine Valley B&B or hotel. If you visit during the summer months, plan your itinerary and make reservations well in advance of your arrival. You’ll need a car to explore the Brandywine Valley on your own. Tip: Nemours Mansion and Gardens is open May through December only, and is closed on Mondays.

#7: Yoga and Wellness Retreat in Costa Rica

For a rejuvenating and mindful experience, consider a yoga and wellness retreat in Costa Rica. The Blue Spirit retreat offers an 8-day experience combining yoga, meditation, and healthy eating with the natural beauty of Nosara. 

Set on a beautiful beach, this retreat focuses on holistic well-being, featuring daily yoga sessions, guided meditations, and workshops on mindfulness and nutrition. You can also enjoy spa treatments, nature walks, and excursions to nearby waterfalls. This retreat is ideal for single women seeking to recharge in a peaceful and supportive environment.

#8: Kingdom of the Monarchs – Monarch Butterfly Migration in Mexico with Natural Habitat Adventures

Join a 6-day adventure in the mountains of Central Mexico to witness the breathtaking migration of millions of Monarch butterflies. This women-only tour takes you from Mexico City to the high-altitude oyamel fir forests where the Monarchs cluster by the thousands. Guided hikes bring you close to the butterflies as they blanket trees and fill the air in a stunning display. 

In addition to the butterfly sanctuaries, you’ll explore local towns, savor traditional Mexican cuisine, and stay in eco-lodges that blend comfort with natural beauty.

#9: Walking Tour of New Zealand’s South Island

For those who love nature and walking, New Zealand’s South Island offers some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes. This walking tour takes you through the stunning Fiordland National Park, with views of glaciers, turquoise lakes, and rolling hills. Guided by experts, you’ll explore areas like Milford Sound and the Routeburn Track, known for their dramatic scenery and peaceful walks. The tour also includes visits to local towns where you’ll enjoy the culture and hospitality of this welcoming destination. Perfect for those who want to experience an active yet relaxing nature adventure.

#10: Greek Island Hopping Cruise

Experience the beauty and charm of the Greek Islands on a small-group island-hopping cruise. This tour allows you to visit multiple islands, such as Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete. Spend your days exploring ancient ruins, relaxing on beautiful beaches, and sampling delicious Greek cuisine. With plenty of free time for solo exploration, this cruise offers the perfect balance of guided experiences and personal time to wander at your own pace. A great option for those seeking a laid-back yet culturally rich vacation.

Read more travel articles:

5 VACATION PLANNING TIPS FOR DYNAMIC OLDER TRAVELERS

TRAVELING SOLO IN MEXICO AS AN OLDER WOMAN

5 COMFORTABLE TRAVEL OUTFITS FOR WOMEN OVER 60

Where to Find Your Next Trip

It has never been easier to find information and research the places that are on our travel lists. The internet abounds with travel websites for all interests. 

Here is a short list of some websites that are specifically geared toward older women travelers. Some offer guided tours in groups that are women only and others share tips and tricks about traveling alone. Women helping women.  

Women on the Road – Website dedicated to solo women travelers with helpful tips and tricks.

Solo Traveler – Another helpful website for solo female wanderers.

Wanderlust and Lipstick – Scroll through this website and find organized trips off the beaten path for women.

Journey Woman – Find tips and tricks, tours, and resources for women traveling solo.

Women Traveling – “Travel solo together.” Find a community of like-minded women traveling solo to share adventures and journeys with.

Also, search on Facebook and other social media platforms for groups of solo women travelers. Sometimes you can find location-specific groups where women share their experiences and tips for traveling to the location that you intend to go. These groups can help you to better prepare for your trip and can also be a useful resource when on the ground.

Read BEST WAY TO USE PACKING CUBES – YOU’LL NEVER TRAVEL WITHOUT THEM AGAIN!

How to Choose the Best Type of Vacation for You

Selecting the right vacation can be an exciting yet challenging decision, especially when you’re traveling solo. With so many options available, it’s essential to choose a vacation that aligns with your interests, lifestyle, and physical abilities. 

Here’s a guide to help you determine the best type of vacation for you:

Consider Your Interests

Think about what excites you the most, whether it’s exploring history, discovering local culture, indulging in relaxation, or seeking adventure. If you’re a history buff, a tour of ancient cities or a cultural immersion experience might be ideal. For those who seek relaxation, a spa retreat or a quiet beach destination can provide the perfect escape. If you’re looking for adventure, consider activities like hiking, wildlife safaris, or taking on a new challenge, such as learning a new skill.

Determine Your Comfort Level with Group Travel vs. Solo Travel

Some women prefer the social aspect of group tours, where everything is organized, and there’s always someone to share the experience with. If you like the idea of meeting new people and sharing meals and activities, a group tour or an organized vacation might be perfect for you. On the other hand, if you’re more independent and prefer flexibility, a solo trip or a DIY vacation could allow you to explore at your own pace without the constraints of a group.

Assess Your Physical Fitness and Mobility

Your physical fitness is an essential factor when choosing a vacation. Some trips may involve extensive walking, hiking, or other physical activities, such as climbing, which could be more demanding than others. If you’re in great shape and enjoy physical challenges, an active vacation like hiking the Tokaido Trail in Japan or a safari in Africa might be appealing. For a more relaxed experience, consider destinations with less physical activity, such as a river cruise or a wellness retreat focused on yoga and mindfulness.

Think About Your Budget

Vacations come in all price ranges. A luxury getaway in an all-inclusive resort will likely cost more than a self-guided road trip or an educational tour. Consider how much you’re willing to spend and whether you’re looking for a more economical adventure or a lavish experience. If you’re on a budget, look for destinations with a lower cost of living, off-season travel deals, or tours that don’t have a single supplement fee.

Safety and Comfort

Safety should always be a priority, especially when traveling solo. Some destinations may feel more welcoming to solo travelers, while others may require extra caution. Research safety tips for your chosen destination, such as travel advisories, the local culture, and areas to avoid. Also, think about the comfort factor, whether it’s the accommodation, ease of transportation, or medical facilities available. Choose a vacation that makes you feel secure and comfortable throughout your trip.

Length of Trip and Travel Time

Consider how much time you have for your vacation and how far you’re willing to travel. If you have a limited amount of time, a closer destination or a short trip might be ideal. Longer trips can offer deeper exploration of a country or region, but they also require more time off and can be more physically demanding. Make sure your chosen vacation suits both your schedule and your energy levels.

How to Fight the Single Supplement

A single supplement is a fee or surcharge that a solo traveler must pay in order to occupy a hotel room or ship state room alone. Single supplements can range from negligible to 100% of the double-occupancy rate.

Why Do Travel Providers Charge Single Supplements?

Tour operators and cruise lines normally base their prices on a per-person, double occupancy model. They do this because most hotel rooms and ship staterooms are built for two people. Solo travelers are often assessed a single supplement to cover the cost of not filling the second space in their room.

Tips for Avoiding the Single Supplement

• Plan your travel during the off-season. Travel providers may be willing to negotiate with you in order to fill beds and tour spots.
• Join a solo travelers’ group. You can find groups in your area or start your own at MeetUp.com. These groups often sponsor their own trips or have connections to travel agents and tour operators that cater to solo travelers.
• If traveling in organized tours is not your thing, book your own solo itinerary. Rent a one-bedroom vacation apartment or find a room via Airbnb.com. Read up on safety concerns. Meet your host or landlord and find out about public transportation and local attractions. Then strike out on your own and explore your surroundings. Consider booking a day trip or walking tour if you prefer traveling with a guide.
• Find a travel agency that specializes in singles’ travel, and ask about trips for people in your age group. Friendship Travel, based in Northern Ireland, offers vacations in Europe, the Caribbean and Africa; some trips are reserved for travelers age 50 or older.

A Sampling of Solo-Friendly Tour Operators and Cruise Lines

Norwegian Cruise Lines Norwegian Epic made the news with its Studio staterooms, specifically designed for solo travelers, and the Studio Complex and Lounge, which are for Studio passengers’ exclusive use. Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Getaway, and Pride of America also feature Studio staterooms.

The Schooner Lewis R. French, whose captain is a member of the Maine Windjammer Association, offers three- to six-night coastal Maine windjammer cruises. The schooner has five single cabins, and you won’t be charged a single supplement. You can even help sail the ship. Tip: There’s only one hot water shower onboard, so you’ll have to take turns.

Tauck offers single supplement waivers on select land tour departure dates. And, for river cruise fans, Tauck River Cruises waives the single supplement on Category 1 staterooms.

Overseas Adventure Travel (OAT) waives the single supplement on some of its trips, including select small ship adventures. OAT also offers roommate matching.

Tips for Staying Safe While Traveling Solo

Safety is a top priority for solo travelers, particularly for women, who may face unique challenges on the road. While solo travel can be incredibly rewarding, it’s essential to take precautions to ensure your journey is as safe as it is enjoyable. 

Stay Connected with Family and Friends

Maintaining regular contact with family and friends back home is an important safety measure. Share your travel itinerary with someone you trust and check in with them at agreed-upon intervals. Use apps like WhatsApp, Skype, or email to stay in touch, and consider sharing your live location via Google Maps or other location-sharing apps. This way, someone always knows where you are, and they can raise an alarm if they don’t hear from you.

Navigate Unfamiliar Places Confidently

Before you set out to explore a new destination, familiarize yourself with the area. Study maps, learn about public transportation options, and identify key landmarks. Consider downloading offline maps to your smartphone, so you’re never lost without a connection. Walk with confidence, even if you’re unsure of your surroundings, and avoid looking like a tourist by being discreet with maps or guidebooks.

Avoid Common Travel Scams

Unfortunately, solo travelers can be targets for scams. Research common scams in your destination before you go, so you know what to watch out for. Be cautious of overly friendly strangers, and be wary of offers that seem too good to be true. For example, beware of taxi drivers who claim the meter is broken, locals who insist on taking you to a special store or attraction, or anyone asking for money under suspicious circumstances. Trust your instincts—if something feels off, it’s better to walk away.

Keep Personal Belongings Secure

Protecting your belongings can prevent a trip from being spoiled by theft or loss. Use a crossbody bag with zippers, and keep it in front of you in crowded areas. Consider investing in anti-theft bags or accessories with locking zippers or RFID-blocking technology. Never leave your belongings unattended, and use hotel safes for valuables like passports, credit cards, and extra cash. If you’re carrying important documents, keep digital copies stored securely online or in your email, so you can access them in an emergency.

Read 5 Best Anti-Theft Travel Bags for Older Women

Trust Your Instincts

Perhaps the most important safety tip is to trust your instincts. If a situation or person doesn’t feel right, remove yourself from the situation as quickly as possible. Your intuition is a powerful tool—listen to it, and don’t worry about offending someone if you need to prioritize your safety. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Blend in with Locals

To avoid drawing unnecessary attention, try to blend in with the local population. Dress conservatively, respecting the local culture and customs, and avoid displaying flashy jewelry or expensive electronics. Learn a few key phrases in the local language, and adopt the local norms when it comes to greetings and behavior. By blending in, you reduce the risk of being singled out as a vulnerable tourist.

Have an Emergency Plan

Prepare for emergencies by knowing the local emergency numbers, the location of your country’s embassy or consulate, and the nearest hospital. Carry a basic first-aid kit, and consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and theft. It’s also wise to have a small amount of local currency on hand in case of emergencies.

Take Care of Your Well-Being

Finally, take care of your mental and physical well-being while traveling. Make time for rest, eat well, and stay hydrated. Solo travel can sometimes be overwhelming, so it’s important to take breaks and recharge. If you feel uneasy or stressed, don’t hesitate to change your plans or take a day to relax.

Want to learn more about traveling solo?

Read 6 BEST SENIOR TRAVEL GROUPS.

Also read FROM PAGE TO PLACE – 10 LITERARY LANDMARKS TO VISIT FOR WOMEN OVER 50.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Are you single? Have you been on an amazing vacation of your own? Share your travel experiences in the comments below.

We are all familiar with the character that swoops in to save the world from being destroyed, or catch a person falling from a sky scrapper midair. We love the dramatic lead up to the crisis and the will-it-won’t-it scenario. If the hero doesn’t save the day, we could all be doomed!

While loving the comic book hero… and the skintight suit and flowing cape, it is easy to think that heroes are either make believe, or only this realm only can hold a few chosen ones.

When Did You Last Save The Day?

But in our own way we are all Superheroes. The mum who drove home to pick up the homework or left sports kit. The grandma who stepped in to care for a sick child while the parents went to work. The friend who dropped everything to pick you up at the airport, or a neighbour who watered the plants. 

They may not always seem huge, but it is often the little things in life that make the biggest difference. A sympathetic ear, a touch on the shoulder to show you care, or a warm smile to make someone feel welcomed or at ease. We all need a little help and support at some time in our lives.

Sometimes Listening Is All That’s Needed

Being a Superhero is not all about holding back enormous waves, or saving a city from an earthquake, sometimes it is just about listening. At times the world can seem a very fast paced and scary place. Finding someone to turn to in a time of crisis, sadness or loneliness may feel like looking for a needle in a haystack. 

Giving people a warm, nonjudgmental space where they can feel free to talk honestly and confidentially can be all that is needed. Providing a little oasis to take a breath, consider options and make plans is often the best gift you can give. 

Help in Your Community

Communities are only as good – or as happy – as the people who live in them. It doesn’t have to take a huge amount of time or commitment to make a real difference. Reading with kids at the local school or library. Cooking or serving food at the community shelter. Helping the local theatre group, painting backdrops, mending costumes or selling tickets. Litter picking, beach cleaning, planting bulbs, all go a huge way to making your community the kind of place you like to live in.

There is always a need for volunteers and the opportunities to make a difference are endless. Visiting people in hospital or care homes, dog walking at the local rescue centre, answering the telephone at crisis centres, fund raising for a local charity, are all incredibly worthwhile and most are desperate for additional help.

The Butterfly Effect

Making small, positive changes can benefit not only those local to you, but the world in general. The Butterfly Effect suggests that the ripple from the butterfly flapping its wings can have much grander implications. The cumulative effects are said to ripple around the world and can become part of a tornado. Imagine your kindness flapping its wings and building a world full of compassion and kindness.

Whenever I meet someone new, I always like to think that, when they walk away, they were happy they stopped to speak to me. As a solo traveller I have met so many wonderful people, some who have honestly changed my life for the better. 

It All Adds Up

So next time you are questioning how much difference you make in this world, think about the small everyday things you do. Stopping for someone to cross the road, holding the door open, carrying a neighbour’s shopping or giving a friend a lift. It might not seem that much to you, but trust me, it all adds up.

Please Join the Conversation:

Are you a Superhero? What do you do to make the world a better place? Who would get your Superhero gold medal?

What were the ground rules?

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Originally posted at: Tamra Judge’s Brown Off The Shoulder Mini Confessional Dress

I know the feeling, overwhelm. I need to clean up, straighten up, purge or de-clutter but when I look around, it’s just too big of a job. I’d much rather peek at the latest Instagram post. Those funny cat videos make me laugh out loud! Then I’m on to the cute dog videos on YouTube. How did they get those dogs to do that? One hour later, I glance up from my phone, and the mess in my kitchen is still there and seems bigger than before!

Procrastination loves to win. It likes to put off for tomorrow what can be done today. How can you knock procrastination upside the head (metaphorically speaking, of course)? Here are a few ideas that actually work.

Mail… Mail Everywhere!

When the mail comes into the house, head straight to the recycle bin. Toss the junk mail first. With what’s left, have a cool letter opener ready, and get to work on those. Open up, put important things in one spot and toss the envelopes, etc. in the recycle bin. If you wait to do this, you’ll have a stack of junk to go through as you search for the important stuff. This leads to the paper taunting you every time you walk by. Don’t let it win.

Household Chores Are Good for the Brain?

I came across an amazing study done on the benefit of doing housework (imagine that!). This study published in Neurology in 2022 found a link between doing ordinary household chores and a lower risk of dementia. The researchers collected data from more than half a million cognitively normal adults, ages 40 to 69, including information about their physical activity (leisure time and housework both counted) and mental activity, such as social interactions.

They followed the subjects for an average of 10 years and found that regular housework-related activities like scrubbing, vacuuming and tidying were associated with a 21 percent lower risk of developing dementia. They suggested making a list of things that needed to be done then thinking of that list as your individualized exercise routine for the day. If you can’t make it to the gym, or it’s raining when you take your regular walk, checking off your list as you do household chores count as a brain boosting activity.

The Magic of Using a Timer

In the article 14 Ways to Make Chores More Joyful, I read about someone who hated emptying the dishwasher, until she timed it. Turns out, it took 4 minutes to complete. That tiny piece of information helped her stop procrastinating and dreading the task.

I’ve used this trick found in YouTube from “The Secret Slob.” I start my coffee and then try to have all my dry dishes sitting in the rack put away by the time the coffee is done. In a way the coffee pot is a timer that motivates me. Check out The Secret Slob YouTuber for other ideas to motivate you while temporarily sitting in your recliner.

One of my clients used a 15-minute timer to tackle procrastination. She told herself she only had to work on organizing her craft room (or other projects) until the timer dinged. Sometimes she stopped at the 15-minute ding, which worked well. Other times, that short burst got her rolling, and she kept at it until the task was complete.

Become a “Commercial Cleaner”

Have you ever tried to squeeze a task in during a commercial? A commentor in the Secret Slob’s YouTube said they called themselves a “Commercial Cleaner.” I love the humor in that! Just get up off the couch and do a small task during the commercials. (Full disclosure: My husband and I sometimes use that time to go get ice cream, but I don’t think that’s the right idea.) The idea is to use small spurts of time to get something done. You could surprise yourself by what you can do in small increments.

What About the Kitchen Sink?

If your house is an open concept like mine, you can see the kitchen, dining and living room all at once. I love this openness, but if the kitchen has stacks of unwashed dishes and pans, I’m not happy. So, I tell myself, “Start with the kitchen sink.” Usually, when I have that one task cleaned up, I feel much better.

Need Help?

If you’ve tried these tips and still struggle with procrastination, working with a life coach might be helpful. Coaching provides a structured form of accountability, where you regularly check in to review your progress. Even if you weren’t able to complete a task, a coach can help you explore what obstacles got in the way and identify new strategies to move forward. A trusted friend can be your accountability partner, but keep in mind that this can place a strain on friendship, so it’s important to approach that with care.

Is it Worth the Effort?

There may be more benefits to keeping a tidy home than we’ve acknowledged.

Reduced Stress

A clean space leaves you feeling calm and more at ease in your own home.

Reduce Distractions

It’s easier to focus when your environment isn’t cluttered.

Improved Mood

Something as simple as having the dishes done can make a big difference in how you feel throughout the day.

Better Health

A clean home means less dust and fewer allergens floating around.

More Social Confidence

When your space is under control, you’re more likely to feel comfortable inviting others in.

When I was a young girl growing up on a farm, we had a long driveway. If Mom spotted someone driving up, we knew the drill! Put away the newspaper and tidy up quickly to make the place presentable before the visitor knocked on the door. That early training taught me the value of staying on top of the mess. Keeping your home somewhat tidy gives you peace of mind in case a friend wants to stop by.

We’ve all fallen into the sneaky habit of “I’ll do it later.” But instead of putting it off, try these small easy tips. I suggest starting with the kitchen sink! Your brain and your body will thank you.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

What household chores do you procrastinate doing? How does this affect your mood for the day? Do you employ any strategies to lower procrastination?