It’s common to live in a space that doesn’t quite feel right. Even though our home is where we spend most of our time, many people don’t actually enjoy how it looks.
One survey of 2,000 households found that one in three respondents dislike their own interior décor. Unsurprisingly, feeling unhappy with your surroundings can affect your overall mood and sense of comfort.
Another poll on the same topic reflected this as well. Around one in eight people said their home made them feel stressed rather than relaxed. One in seven described their space as “chaotic,” and nearly a third believed their home still needed more work to make better use of the space available.
“Our homes reflect our personalities, so it’s important to make the most of what you have, even if space is at a premium,” said a spokesperson for David Village Lighting, which commissioned the second poll.
“Small improvements and adjustments to elements like lighting, furniture and even arrangement can completely transform a space, and many homeowners may not realize what these tweaks can achieve.”
It’s hard to disagree with that. Still, in today’s world, where inspiration is coming at you from every corner of the internet and social media, actually figuring out where to start can feel overwhelming. On top of that, finding the time and energy to redecorate in an already busy life can be just as challenging.
That’s where small, low-pressure steps can help. Lindsay, the creator behind the blog My Creative Days, suggests starting with simple window shopping when inspiration feels low. The idea is to browse without committing to anything right away. This can help you notice what naturally draws your attention before making decisions.
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You don’t even have to leave the house to do it. You can stay in your favorite pajamas, make a cup of tea, and scroll through Pinterest or home décor accounts on social media. Or, as it happens, browse collections shared by people posting their own projects on the Home Decorating subreddit.
If something does stand out, Lindsay suggests allowing yourself to act on it. That could be a blanket, a throw pillow, a vase, or a rug. It doesn’t need to be a big purchase or cost much money. Even one item that genuinely excites you can change the feel of a room and make the decorating process more enjoyable.
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Budget-friendly ideas are another area where creativity really shines. There’s plenty of inspiration showing how small changes can still have a strong visual impact. House & Garden, for example, suggests using curtains instead of cabinet doors in kitchens, pantries, or utility rooms. It’s a simple way to add softness and charm to spaces that are usually more practical than decorative.
Wall art can also make a noticeable difference. According to House & Garden, posters and prints can be a charming and eye-catching addition to almost any room. With so many options available, from vintage designs to modern graphics, large statement pieces or small clustered prints, it’s easy to find something that suits your taste.
When choosing feels difficult, Lindsay adds there’s no harm in asking someone else for input. “This can be your husband, your mom, your sister, a friend or a neighbor. It doesn’t matter who. If you are really in a funk or just can’t seem to put your finger on what you want to do, ask someone else,” she says.
“Ask someone who has been in your home. Ask someone who likes to decorate. Bouncing ideas off someone else and getting their input can help narrow down your decisions and get you headed in the right direction,” Lindsay advises.
