How to Divide Chores in the Home
Whether you are married or living together, you are probably too familiar with chores. Whether they are being done is another story. In order to keep a household running like a well-oiled machine, chores must be done. And, if you could get your partner involved the tasks will seem less daunting.
Unless you are one of those people that enjoy cooking and cleaning, you don’t enjoy chores. And face it, if you enjoyed it you wouldn’t be reading this article. So let’s look at how you can divide the chores in your relationship:
Make a List
A list can help you see how much needs to get done during the week. Once you have the list you can divide the tasks for certain days during the week. Make this list as a couple so that both parties understand the responsibilities and required involvement. Here’s an example of a chore checklist found on Pinterest.
Play to Your Strengths
Once you have the list in place you can divide the tasks into what you do best. If you cringe at the sight of dirty dishes but your partner doesn’t mind getting his/her hands dirty then have them do it. Maybe your partner despises making the bed and folding a fitted sheet makes him/her want to run for the hills. Talk through each chores and discuss who would be better at it. Of course, the list itself should be balanced.
Create a Reward System
Some chores are most definitely worse than others, and might need extra incentive. You can decide amongst each other what would count as a nice treat. For instance, if your partner cleaned the gutters he gets a full-body massage from you, or if you spring cleaned all the bathrooms and cupboard your significant other cooks you dinner by candlelight.
Admit When You Need Help
If you realize that you have bitten off way more than you can chew, it might be time to get a helping hand. Having a cleaner come in every week could help lighten the load and prevent unnecessary arguments over chores. This would depend on your budget and what you are currently prioritizing.
Do you need help with managing the chores in your relationship? Or maybe you feel like it’s completely unbalanced in the relationship? No issue is too small to come in for a little bit of relationship advice. We're based in Lancaster, PA and you can even schedule an appointment online.