How Outsourcing Chores Can Strengthen Relationships
Research suggests that investing in time-saving services can have a positive impact on relationship satisfaction, particularly during stressful periods. Ashley Whillans, a behavioral scientist and professor at Harvard Business School, has found that couples who spend money on services like takeout, house cleaning, or dog walking report greater relationship satisfaction. This is because outsourcing these tasks allows individuals to feel more control over their lives, which in turn boosts their overall well-being.
Whillans’ research focuses on the tradeoffs people make between time and money. She advises couples to take a “time audit” to examine how they spend their hours and identify small changes that can reclaim even a few moments. This approach can help individuals prioritize their time and make intentional decisions about how to allocate it. By doing so, couples can free up time to connect with each other and strengthen their relationship.
The Importance of Intentional Time Use
Simply outsourcing chores is not a magic solution, however. It’s essential to be intentional with the time saved and use it to spend quality time together. This can be as simple as using the extra 30 minutes to have a conversation, go for a walk, or enjoy a meal together. Targol Hasankhani, a Chicago-based marriage and family therapist, emphasizes that while outsourcing domestic labor can ease daily stress, it doesn’t replace communication. Couples must address deeper issues, such as inequity or feeling unheard, to build a stronger relationship.
Casey Mulligan Walsh, a 71-year-old former speech pathologist and author, can attest to the benefits of outsourcing household tasks. She and her husband hired a house cleaner once a week, which freed up time for them to spend together. “My favorite day of the week was coming home to a clean house,” she said. “We’d go get coffee together instead of arguing about who should vacuum.” This small change had a significant impact on their relationship, allowing them to focus on each other rather than household chores.
Getting Started with Outsourcing
For some couples, getting started with outsourcing can be challenging. Besides the cost, it takes time to find someone and coordinate services. However, the long-term payoff is real. Melissa Jones, a 45-year-old teacher in Pueblo, Colorado, started outsourcing household tasks as a result of her husband’s thoughtful gift – a deep house cleaning on Valentine’s Day. This act of love sparked a new approach to managing their time and prioritizing their relationship.
Elizabeth Willard, the owner of The Pickled Beet, a culinary service in Miami, has seen the impact of outsourcing on families. Her clients, often busy professionals with multiple dietary needs, appreciate the convenience of customized meals. “They’re not fighting over what’s for dinner. It’s one less daily decision,” she said. Whether it’s ordering takeout, hiring a lawn care service, or using a car service, buying back time can lead to greater peace and relationship satisfaction.
Conclusion
In conclusion, outsourcing household tasks can be a valuable investment in relationship satisfaction. By prioritizing time and being intentional with how it’s used, couples can strengthen their bond and reduce stress. As Whillans’ research suggests, even small changes can have a significant impact. For more information on this topic, visit Here.
Image Source: www.latimes.com
