Why Bother with DIY Home Projects?

While there’s nothing quite like the pride of being able to show off something you did yourself, or the satisfaction of knowing you may have saved a significant amount over retail, there are some factors to consider before deciding to do it yourself.

Beyond the satisfaction that comes with creating something using your own two hands, there are many benefits of DIY-ing. Not only can it help you save money, but DIY projects offer you real, hands-on ways to empower your mind and improve your wellbeing.

1. It will boost your brain power

DIY-ing is a terrific way to gain new skills or knowledge. Whether reading up on techniques online or discovering how a broken appliance ticks, each project you tackle will teach you something new and improve your problem-solving abilities. Who couldn’t use a boost in that area?

2. It encourages leaving technology alone for a period of time

We spend a substantial amount of time on phones, laptop, computers. Having to focus on a manual task means having to switch off from the madness of emails and social media for a while and take pleasure in the task ahead. Italian psychologist, Dr Migliaccio, calls this 'pulling the plug.' Why not try to pull the plug once a week in 2022 and see what difference it makes?

3. A manual DIY task that is completed gives enormous satisfaction, in a way that is unlike achieving a work task

Think of how good you felt when you finally got round to putting up that shelf, figuring out how to build that wardrobe or painting that wall that had been staring at you for months or pruning the garden… really good! The accomplishment factor is key.

4. Builds better relationships

Few things bring people together like shared interests, and DIY projects encourage these special connections. Whether you enjoy cooking, crafting or remodeling, chances are there is a large community of people who can offer friendship and support — an essential part of keeping your dreams on track.

And the good news is, during this time of social distancing, you don’t even have to leave your house to enjoy the support system of DIY-ers like you. All you need is a computer and internet connection to have access to countless groups dedicated to the DIY lifestyle.

5. It really saves you money

Although baking-soda-and-citric-acid dish tabs may not be the most effective cleaning solution, plenty of homemade cleaners work just as well as, or better than, store-bought cleaners and can end up saving you a great deal of money while also being better for your health and the planet.

DIY-ing is great for your overall happiness! If you lately find yourself with more time on your hands at home, consider tackling some projects yourself or learning a new skill. You just may find it a great time of self-discovery.