If one of you loves the garbage pail detail, and the other loves keeping the toilet bowl lemon fresh, then read no further, this evaluation is not for you. But for most couples — especially those who lead busy lives outside the home — housekeeping can be a challenge. However, with a little planning, partners can jointly tackle the household chores without tackling each other.
This exercise can help you rethink the way you manage your household. A new approach to dividing or sharing chores might better suit you both. A change of routine can also add variety or allow you to learn new skills, such as gardening.
What share of the following tasks would you prefer to handle?
All or most = 1 A roughly equal share = 2 Little or none = 3
Circle those answers that are different from your current routine.
Record your responses independently, then compare.
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Housekeeping Chore
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Partner
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A
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B
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| Shopping |
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| Food preparation & cooking |
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| Bathroom cleaning |
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| Kitchen cleaning |
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| General house cleaning |
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| Laundry washing & dry |
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| Laundry ironing, mending |
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| Dishwashing |
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| Garbage removal |
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| Recycle take-out |
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| Bed making |
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| Home decorating, arrangement |
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| Yard work, gardening |
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| Household repairs & improvements |
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| Car maintenance |
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| Provision of family income |
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| Household bookkeeping |
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| Financial planning (e.g. insurance & investments) |
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| Childcare (if applicable) |
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| Child discipline (if applicable) |
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| Household bookkeeping |
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| Pet care (if applicable) |
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| Planning social engagements & outings |
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| Vacation planning |
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Did any of your partner’s answers surprise you? Discuss those items where you or your partner are looking for a change, or where your preferences don’t mesh.
Where to go from here
Decide on the best chore sharing scheme for your household. Here are some options:
- Divide all the chores between you, take turns, or perhaps share some.
- Do some chores together to share special skills, such as car maintenance.
- Hire outside help or a professional service, if affordable.
- Plan a regular time when you can do the housework together.
Take notes or keep it informal, but be sure to reevaluate your decisions after a month to make sure they’re working for you.
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