Making a Difference

I have been doing residential housekeeping for the past couple of years, which was a big change from my long history in an office setting. Housekeeping is a very rewarding job despite the fact that it's not glamorous. You spend several hours doing someone else's dirty work and often end up needing a second shower for the day by the time you're done, but when you see how great it looks when you're done you can literally see that you accomplished something good.

Even better is when you can see the difference that you're making in someone's life. This is something I never experienced in a job setting before and never expected to happen in my role as a housekeeper. Sometimes when I take on a new client, their homes are cluttered, unorganized, often with a pile of laundry and a sink full of dishes. Then after they hire me to start cleaning for them, I notice an immediate change- not just in their homes, but in their hearts. They go from stressed and overwhelmed to organized and happy. The dishes and laundry disappear along with the stress and they are able to spend more time enjoying their families and doing activities they love.

I frequently receive expressions of gratitude for the good cleaning job I do, but occasionally I receive heartfelt thanks for making that "difference" in their life. Here are some excerpts from some positive feedback I received after cleaning a new client's house this week.

The house looks amazing! My husband and I were so impressed. You showed attention to detail, professionalism, and pride in your work. You are my dream come true! The fact that we were able to spend quality time with the kids was just the icing on the cake! Each morning since you came, I have been making the beds, cooking a full breakfast, and cleaning the kitchen spotless. I have not even left a cup of water on my nightstand. My house feels so clean and put together! Please know that the time you spent has helped me be a better mom and wife and you have made my life easier and better! I haven't felt this put together in forever. I feel like I have an assistant now, one who cares as much as I do! You have improved the quality of all of our lives.

I began cleaning houses out of desperation for employment and the need of a flexible job where I could determine my hours, but I continue to do housekeeping because of moments like these... the times I know I'm making a difference.