Taking on a DIY project can be super stressful for many.
Of course, there are a few people who revel in a good home project. Give them a chance to rip up their carpets or re-do their kitchen tiles and it’s basically like Christmas for them. They know exactly what measurements to take, what tools to use, and what aisles to dive right into at the store.
That is great for them, but unfortunately for those who don’t have the necessary DIY skills, we can guarantee you are going to have a bit more trouble with your project.
DIY newbies tend to make similar mistakes when starting a home project, but please know that that is 100% okay! Like we said, everyone tends to make similar mistakes — it’s not unheard of and it is expected to happen. It is all part of the process.
All of that being said, most people will still probably dread the weekend full of paint and trips to the hardware store, but sadly it is just something that has to be done. Even if you’re not one of those freaks who thrive while re-finishing the basement, there are ways to make your life a wee bit easier.
When you think about it, sometimes our stress actually comes from trying too hard to prepare!
You have watched all the tutorials and made detailed lists for everything you need to buy — so surely you will complete your project with zero issues along the way. True? False!
No matter how much you prepare, here’s the golden home improvement rule: every project takes at least three trips to the hardware store.
Here’s why!
Trip #1: Getting Ready
For your first trip, you go in with your basic list. Get whatever essentials you need, whether it be paint, tools — you name it. At this point, you are probably still working out the kinks.
Maybe you are unsure of finishing touches. In this case, you can use the professionals at the store for guidance. Ask them all of your DIY questions now or forever hold your peace. Just kidding, you will be back soon.
If you forget something while you’re there don’t sweat it because, again, you will be back.
Trip #2: After something unplanned occurs
Yes, you learn which tools to get and how to do whatever it is you are doing, but you simply can’t prepare for any unexpected issues to arise. And there are almost always unexpected issues.
Your second trip to the store comes when you’re about halfway through the project and then you hit an unpredicted bump in the road. You didn’t measure something properly! The color shade looks different on your wall! There’s hidden damage in your home! We’ve all been there.
It’s time to get in your car (or on your bike or feet) and get right back to the hardware store. Sure, you will be a bit frustrated… A little sweaty… But you can once again ask the pros for any assistance and get anything else you need.
Trip #3: The worst trip of all
The third (and hopefully last) trip is no doubt, the worst. It is the most frustrating. It is when something happens that you really didn’t see coming.
You made sure you got everything on the second trip except you didn’t. You missed that one little screw that really shouldn’t be important but if you don’t get it, all of the hard work you put in would be for nothing.
So yeah, go get that little screw. Because you know your partner has no idea what you’re talking about.
The good thing is once you do get that final missing puzzle piece, that means you’re pretty much done! Finally, you can sit back, relax, chug a beer or two, and enjoy whatever it is you put your heart, soul, sweat, and tears into building.
Now that you can expect to make at least three trips to the store, you’ll be much calmer going into the next project.
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