Creating a Space That Comforts: A Quiz for Widows

This is my living room, with my white furry stools, the first new thing for the house I bought after Eric died. I moved houses last year and decided, after five years, to make my home totally my own. I have been working on my living room for seven months. I love how it is turning out.

Losing your beloved changes so much—including how your home feels. Your surroundings can either support your healing or keep you stuck in the past.

Take this quiz to see if a little redecorating might help you move forward with peace and purpose.

QUIZ: Creating A Space That Comforts

1. How do you feel when you walk into your home?

a) It feels warm and comforting.

b) It feels neutral—not good or bad.

c) It feels heavy or stuck in the past.

2. Do you avoid certain rooms or areas of your home because of painful memories?

a) No, I feel at peace in all areas of my home.

b) Sometimes, but it’s not overwhelming.

c) Yes, I actively avoid them.

3. How do you feel about the décor and furniture in your home?

a) It reflects who I am now.

b) It’s okay, but I haven’t updated much.

c) It still looks exactly the same as when my beloved lived here, and it feels frozen in time.

4. Do certain objects or decorations in your home trigger sadness more than comfort?

a) No, everything in my space brings me peace or good memories.

b) There are a few items that make me emotional, but I’m okay with them.

c) Yes, I often feel a wave of grief when I see certain things.

5. When you think about making changes to your space, how do you feel?

a) Excited—I'd love to refresh things!

b) Unsure—I might like some small changes but don't know where to start.

c) Overwhelmed—it feels too hard to change anything.

6. How does your bedroom feel to you?

a) Like a peaceful retreat.

b) Just like any other room—I don’t think about it much.

c) Like a place filled with loneliness and reminders of who I’ve lost.

7. Do you have a space in your home that feels like it belongs just to you?

a) Yes, I’ve created a spot that brings me comfort and joy.

b) Kind of—I have a favorite chair or corner, but it could use some love.

c) No, the home still feels like it was designed for "us," not "me."

8. If a friend offered to help you make some changes in your home, how would you respond?

a) I’d love that—I’m ready for something new!

b) Maybe, but I’d need to think about it first.

c) No, I don’t want to change anything right now.

Your Results:

🌿 Mostly A’s: Your home is already a place of comfort and support, but if you want to refresh a few things, go for it! A new color, some fresh flowers, or a small reorganization could bring even more joy.

🛋️ Mostly B’s: You might be ready for a gentle refresh. Try updating one area—a new throw blanket, rearranging furniture, or adding a plant. Small changes can bring new energy and hope. If the small area energizes you, pick a new space.

🖼️ Mostly C’s: Your space may feel frozen in time, making it harder to move forward. Consider making small, meaningful changes. Start by choosing one thing to update—perhaps a new photo display, a cozy reading nook, or a fresh coat of paint in your favorite color.

You deserve a space that nurtures and comforts you.

5 Simple Steps to Refresh Your Space

1️⃣ Start Small – Pick just one area to update, like a nightstand, bookshelf, or cozy corner. A small win builds momentum!

2️⃣ Declutter First – Letting go of items that no longer serve you creates space for new joy. Donate, repurpose, or store items thoughtfully.

3️⃣ Choose a Fresh Color or Theme – A new pillow, blanket, or even all pink books on a shelf (like I did a couple of weeks ago) in a different color can instantly change the feel of a room.

4️⃣ Incorporate Comfort – Your space should feel safe and nurturing. Add soft textures, warm lighting, or a favorite scent to make it more inviting.

5️⃣ Make It Yours – This is your home now. Display things that bring you peace, like inspiring artwork, meaningful photos, or a cozy reading nook.

Your home should be a place of comfort, healing, and hope. Whether you make a small change or a big transformation, refreshing your space can be a beautiful way to honor the past while embracing the present. Remember, redecorating isn’t about erasing memories—it’s about creating a home that reflects who you are now, with room for both cherished moments and new beginnings.

If you decide to refresh your space, I’d love to hear about it!

Email me at lisa@thewidowscomeback.com or post a pic on The Widow's Facebook page and inspire others!