Use less, enjoy more
Sometimes it’s worth taking a step back, and working out what it is that really satisfies you. Why are you DIY-ing? Do you need to rip everything out and start afresh? – or is a subtle revamp all your heart really desires? Are you doing the work because of what you want to get done, or because of the enjoyment of spending the time doing it? If you want to fill more spare time with each project – and vastly increase your personal creative input and sense of ownership – see the section on how to reuse materials.
Whatever your reasons for DIY, and whatever your project, think carefully about what is needed and what materials to use (or reuse).