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Turn up the music -

Music can be a great motivator whatever the task, so put together a playlist of your favorite upbeat songs and crank up the volume while you bust out some serious cleaning.

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Pretend the mop is a mic -

Remember the days when you'd play band with your school friends? Well it's time to take the stage again. Grab your mop and sing like no one's listening.

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Make your own cleaning products -

Creating your own cleaning products will add novelty to the everyday experience of doing housework. Your hands will also thank you since homemade products will use fewer harsh chemicals. 

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Have clear goals -

Decide beforehand exactly what you want to achieve in the session. This will help you stay focused and feel more satisfied as you achieve each of your goals.

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Offer a financial incentive -

There's nothing like a monetary gain when it comes to motivation, so why not reward yourself with a treat once the cleaning is done?

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Keep a visual record of your progress -

Once you've decided on your goals and reward, be sure to track your progress visually somehow. This will help keep you motivated throughout the mission.

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Treat it as a workout -

For many people working out is also a bore, so why not kill two birds with one stone? Try doing some calf raises as you wash the dishes or some lunges as you vacuum. 

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Treat it as a competition -

If you're getting the kids involved, you can't go wrong with a bit of healthy competition. See who can tidy, dust, and vacuum a room the quickest.

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Get some new gear -

Just as wearing new gym gear will make you want to work out, having nice cleaning gear will make it more enticing to clean. 

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Have a designated cleaning outfit -

You're unlikely to clean effectively if you go at it in your favorite pant suit. Keep an outift specifically for cleaning and treat it like a uniform. Putting it on will put you in the mindset.

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Dress up like Rosie the Riveter -

There are few pin-ups more motivational than Rosie, so throw your hair up in a headscarf, roll up those sleeves, and get into it. 

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Dress up in anything -

In fact, fancy dress of any kind will add some novelty to the otherwise mundane experience. Imagine catching yourself in the mirror dressed as Edward Scissorhands wielding a broom.

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Have a glass of wine - There's no reason not to indulge in the finer things while getting your hands dirty. Grab yourself a glass (or two) and settle in for a nice evening's cleaning.

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Watch a film -

If ironing is the dish of the day, there's no better way to get the job done than to put on your favorite flick and iron as you go.

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Use machines -

Of course, there isn't a machine for everything, but where there is don't be afraid to use it. Don't make life difficult for yourself, load that dishwasher.

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Make it a game -

If you're working as a team or getting the kids involved, how about a game of "how many items of clothing can you get in the basket in 30 seconds"?

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Keep a chart -

Making a plan and keeping a record of what's been done and what hasn't will prevent things from building up to the point where starting the housework seems like an unsurmountable task.

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Whip out the label maker -

It's admittedly not the most glamorous of devices, but the trusty labelmaker is a surefire way to make sure things are properly organized (and using it is oddly satisfying).

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Do a monthly clear out -

A periodic cleanse will stop clutter from building up to the point where it's overwhelming. Every week is probably too much, but once a month should work just fine.

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Race against time -

To introduce that competitive element while cleaning by yourself, try to beat the clock. Get those floors sparkling in the next 15 minutes, have those shirts ironed by half past three.

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Work as a team -

When it comes to housework, nothing will lessen the burden more than working with someone else. Not only is the workload halved but you'll have a buddy to chat and laugh with along the way.

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Keep it short -

Make sure you're not spending too long on your chores. Designate yourself two hours maximum to the task, as any longer would likely reduce your efficiency. 

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Take breaks -

Make sure to take regular breaks from the thirsty work. Revel in your achievements and the comfort of your soon-to-be-sparkling home.

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Have a finishing time -

Having a deadline will help to keep you focused and motivate, and it'll keep you from getting too bored.

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Make an evening of it -

If you decide that after-work cleaning is your strength, be sure to make an evening of it. Light some candles and put on some soothing music for a cozy cleaning session.

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Get the kids involved -

Sure, it may take a little longer, but involving children in the household chores will provide endless entertainment as well important lessons on how it's done.

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Talk to a friend -

Cleaning is, for the most part, a mindless task. So why not take the opportunity to call a friend or family member? Having a catch up will make the time fly by.

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Have a cleaning party -

If you have a group of messy friends, a virtual cleaning party could do the trick! Then once quarantine is over, come together and work as a team to clean each other's houses. Many hands make light work!

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Make the most of nature -

Be sure to look outside regularly and when it comes to taking out the trash, make sure to do it during sunset.

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Do your partner's chores -

While this may not sound like fun, the look on your partner's face when you surprise them with their completed chores will make your day.

See also: How to stay motivated on your fitness journey.

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