Women continue to take on a disproportionate amount of unpaid household labour and the ‘mental load’. But the road to ‘no’ can be a long one
As a working mother, one word has saved me as the pandemic has worn on: “No.” I’ve learned to say “no” to being the parent who will automatically take carer’s leave when childcare centres and schools close. “No” to being the only one to plan meals for the week. “No” to being the type of Instagram-worthy mother who mindfully makes her own hummus throughout lockdown.
Mastering the word has been liberating. It has freed up time, energy and headspace to do my paid work, focus on self-care essentials and actually enjoy free time with my family. It’s also supported a positive relationship with my partner because we both equally pull our weight at home, heading off the resentment that can fester in some relationships when the unequal division of labour takes its toll.
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