by Eliana H.

I read – actually, listened to – How to Keep House While Drowning after a good friend shared repeatedly and enthusiastically how valuable it was to her. It’s pretty short, and I figured it was worth a look at least. Let me now tell YOU that it is certainly worth picking up. There is a line on page 6 that says, “If you are crying (or wincing internally) right now, this book is for you.” I will freely admit here that I was crying at that point, and this book was for me. 

If you have ever found yourself having a hard time keeping up with everything you feel like you should be doing, this book is for you, too. Everyone struggles sometimes. Our society puts ever-increasing demands on all of us, but it doesn’t necessarily provide the support needed to meet those expectations. For many of us, there are times where even basic tasks can feel overwhelming, especially if we struggle with ADHD, depression, or other challenges to executive functioning. 

Author KC Davis is a licensed professional therapist, and she is so gentle with readers of this book. Chapters are short, main points are highlighted, and a shortcut journey through the book is offered for those who do not have the capacity to go through the whole thing. But most of all, judgment is completely removed. Every situation Davis describes is explained as a legitimate challenge or obstacle, and she explicitly tells us early on that she does not think laziness exists. What a novel, generous concept! It should not be such an amazing thing to offer everyone grace and compassion when they are struggling, but Davis does so ably and authentically. 

The primary tenet guiding this book is this: “You don’t exist to serve your space; your space exists to serve you.” It’s that simple and that groundbreaking. When we can reframe our perspective on the relative value of our time and having a picture-perfect home, we can find space to prioritize what truly needs to get done, in what timeframe, and to what level. Concrete steps are offered to guide you through the process of managing care tasks – the term Davis uses to encompass the everyday business of caring for oneself and one’s belongings. Nothing is set in stone, and throughout the book, readers are encouraged to figure out what works for them. Everyone’s capacities and priorities are different, so no strategy works for all. But helpful suggestions and guidelines can give us a place to start, even when we are struggling. 

Even if you’re telling yourself “I’m not drowning,” it’s worth taking a look at How to Keep House While Drowning. Just a glance at the short appendices may give you some ideas for improving the functionality of your space, and you may find yourself wanting to see more of what the author has to say. You can borrow it in print, audiobook on CD, e-book, or e-audiobook. 

Eliana is a Children’s Research Specialist and Instructor at HCLS Elkridge Branch. She loves reading, even if she’s slow at it, and especially enjoys helping people find books that make them light up. She also loves being outside and spending time with friends and family (when it’s safe).