Do you have a room with "issues?" These issues can include an awkward arrangement, too much cutter, lack of organization, outdated style, and just not feeling restful or comfortable. Often it's something you just can't put your finger on, but you just know it's not right.

Why not resolve to fix that room this year! But how do you get started? You might be tempted to get rid of everything and start from scratch. A dramatic but pricey and impersonal option. Better yet, take a fresh look at what you already own and (with some objective guidance) and redesign your room to work better for your specific needs. It's a smart new trend, and it's called "Interior Redesign."

But why is it so difficult to get started? There are many reasons why frustrated dwellers may hesitate:

• Don't know where to start. It can be overwhelmingly difficult to see the big picture if you only look at one aspect at a time.
• Don't want to spend a lot of money. With Holiday bills coming due, the last thing you want to do is spend more money!
• Don't have the time. Ironically, once a room has been redesigned to work better, it can actually save you time in the long run.
• Don't trust your style instincts. If your home is not on the market, then you only need to worry about doing what YOU like.
• Assume your room is as good as it can be, and you'll just live with it. Skip this defeatist attitude and make your room a place you enjoy being!
• Your family is resistant to change. That is just human nature. But once you've completed your project, they'll be thanking you!

Ok, so you've made your excuses. Now snap out of it! As with most projects, getting started is the hardest part. Decide to take action, and develop a solid Redesign Plan! How? By breaking your project down into manageable steps! Your plan should include the following:

• The room's purpose - who does what in that room, when do they do it and why? Everything you plan in this room should fit the function of the room.
• The key design elements you want to keep in the room. Perhaps you have a favorite piece of art, a comfortable club chair, a colorful rug, your bowling trophy, whatever has the most meaning to you.
• A definition of your style. Not sure of what your style is? Peruse home magazines and just clip out what you like. You will see a trend over time.
• A basic color palate. Look for inspiration from a piece of art or a piece of fabric that you love.
• Furniture arrangement options. Make sure there is a logical conversational grouping as well as efficient traffic flow. Resist the urge to line furniture up against a wall, and don't be afraid to try angles. Try it on graph paper before to save your back!
• Realistic budget. Do you have everything you need, or is some shopping is required? Before you venture to the stores, first shop the other rooms of your home for hidden treasures.

Developing your redesign plan can be tricky to do yourself, however, because you are so close to your belongings. In fact, problem areas may be invisible to you. Sometimes you need a fresh perspective to think of new ideas.

You could ask a trusted friend or family to give you honest advice. Another option is to hire a professional Interior Decorator to give you an objective viewpoint and help you put together your redesign plan. Need help implementing the plan? Interior Decorators are famous for their enthusiasm to roll up their sleeves and work side-by-side with you. After all, they love a good before and after photo opportunity!

Interior Decorators are not expensive. Their expertise typically costs anywhere from $75 - $125 per hour, and most offer half or full-day packages and shopping services.

You can't finish what you don't start. So make a new years resolution for 2008 to tackle that problem room - you'll be glad you did! After all it's your home, only better.