I am probably in the minority with the following statement, but I love spring cleaning! I love the organization… the cleaning… the figurative breath of fresh air and the feeling of accomplishment that comes with a clutter-free space. I find that it promotes optimistic thoughts, helps me gain clarity, and creates a sense of success. There is just something about having a clean space that makes it easier to focus. My husband has very specific requirements when it comes to cooking… He needs all of the dishes to be put away and everything in its place before he can start dinner!
I used to think this was a touch of OCD. But I figured if that is all it takes to get him in the mood to cook with me, how silly would it be to bring that thought up to him? The truth is his habit has rubbed off on me and I find that working in an organized environment helps me all the way around a project.
What does spring cleaning and being organized have to do with being an aesthetician? Well, when was the last time you sat in your treatment chair and looked at your workspace from the viewpoint of your client? How often have you been in a treatment room, a dentist’s office or even a restaurant and noticed a loose piece of baseboard or bugs in a light fixture? How many times have you noticed months of dust and debris build up on a ceiling fan? The best of clients notice those oversights and often make future choices accordingly. Clean and organized environments build confidence with clients and foster a professional attitude. It promotes the optimum environment for them to take you and your advice seriously.
Spring is a great time to clean, re-arrange and organize your environment. One of this month’s topics is sanitation… Organizational skills are great aids to sanitation practices. When I was young my parents had a spa. I remember they had a schedule just for cleaning and sanitation. My dad had lists that had to be done daily, weekly and monthly. And of course, every spring we would turn the place inside out and upside down, cleaning every nook and cranny. We even cleaned and re-organized storage areas and cabinets. When you make it a priority to have your workspace organized, it offers not only a smoother-running operation, but it makes it much easier to keep the area tidy on a daily basis. Even better yet, it helps you feel good. Sanitation practices follow the same guidelines. After reading our sanitation articles in this issue, you will have a better understanding of the necessary steps to be taken to gain control of any sanitation issues in the spa.
I find that when I have one area whipped into shape, it is much easier for me to bring that touch to the other areas in my life. I think starting small and working toward larger goals is a smart approach. I work best when focusing on one area at a time. After your work environment is clean and organized, move on to the house! Organize each aspect of your life. Your spouse or your kids might complain, but you will not regret it.
Amanda Strunk Miller