Change

My daughter said something interesting to me this morning while we were sitting in a local cafe. I’d remarked how I really liked the olive green colour of the walls. Maybe I should paint my kitchen the same…….

‘Mum you always want to change things’.

She’s right of course, and since Ken died I’ve really worked hard in the garden and court yard, but I’m never completely satisfied with what I do and am always looking for the next project.

So what is it that drives this compulsion? I know I’m not alone in the family, my Mum was the same and now my Granddaughter too is constantly is rearranging her bedroom future.

I researched why we do this and the response was interesting .

Consistent random changes—they all have a common thread.

There are a few reasons why people feel this urge:

• Creative people often don’t see a room as “finished”; they see possibilities. They enjoy the process of refining.
• After major life changes, especially bereavement or retirement, improving your surroundings can give purpose, enjoyment and a sense of control.
• An eye for detail. Once one area looks good, your eye naturally spots the next thing that could be even better.
• The process is rewarding. Sometimes the anticipation of a change is almost as enjoyable as the finished result.

All that seems to make sense,

People like me get a sense of enjoyment from creating rather than simply having. Once a project is finished, my mind naturally starts asking, “What could I improve next?” Apparently it is very common among gardeners, artists, cooks, and people who love interiors.

My home has become something of a sanctuary. After caring for your Ken for so long, then losing him, creating beautiful, calming spaces might be part of how I’m healing. It doesn’t mean I’m trying to “fill a void”—it’s simply one way I can express care for myself and the family.

Would painting the kitchen green enrich my life at the moment? Probably not, but it maybe a project for another day.