How “Dancing Queen” Can Help You Clean

It is late afternoon. You are exhausted. The house is a complete mess. And then, out of nowhere, you remember that you have company coming to your personal den of dirt mere minutes before their estimated time of arrival.

This happened to me once a few months ago, and it was then that I realized the importance of using my resources in such dire circumstances. And yes, by “resources” I am referring to my kids. In the aforementioned situation, there is no way that you are going to get that palace of yours clean in time without the help of your offspring.

Sometimes, however, it is not as easy as simply summoning the troops and doling out duties. Sometimes kids are not quite ready and willing to assist you in your frenzied mission. They are tired. They are grumpy. Sometimes they are both very tired and very grumpy.

Aside from Red Bulls on the rocks and a fair amount of bribery (both of which I generally shun), you have to find a way to get your minions motivated when their help is absolutely necessary. My tried and true means of overcoming lethargy is, and always has been, music.

Nothing gets me and my little soldiers swiffing and sweeping like upbeat, energetic music. Blasting some of my favorite tunes from the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s always puts a pep in my step. Thankfully, it does the same for my kids. Whether it is “I Want to Hold Your Hand” by The Beatles, “Dancing Queen” by ABBA, or “Take on Me” by A-ha, the energy of songs like these is infectious and a huge help in spurring us on to a cleaner casa.

Music has the power to do many things. Thankfully, I’ve discovered its ability to fight inertia and produce movement at the moment when movement seems impossible. Oh, and you may already know this, but music also works as an excellent encourager of early morning zest. There’s nothing like a bit of “Good Day Sunshine” or “Walking on Sunshine” to propel you and your loved ones on to a positive and productive day.

What songs do you listen to when you need that extra jolt? Share with us in the comments your favorite tunes or types of music for stirring the spirit when it is needed most.

by Eileen Carey