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Equality at Home = Equality at Work?

What does the equal division of labor in the home have to do with women’s success in Corporate America? A lot.

Even in this century, women continue to have a disproportionate amount of the workload at home. I have been shocked when I talk to women with high-powered careers and seemingly enlightened husbands, who tell me the reality of their house. For example, one woman’s husband believed his only “childcare duty” was to play with them, and even that wasn’t much.

When both partners have careers and the woman spends a great deal more time with household duties, her career suffers. The most obvious symptom is that she may not be spending as much time at work because she doesn’t have as much time. However, I’m a strong believer that simply more facetime at work doesn’t necessarily make you more successful.

The two more important impacts of having too much “work outside of work” are having less time to build networks and less time for you. Networks are absolutely essential to building your career success – this increases in importance as you advance in your career. It is an activity that takes time to do.

The other detrimental – and very common – impact is women not getting enough time for themselves – this can lead to poor physical, mental and emotional health. You will be more successful in your career if you are healthier through a well-balanced life, taking care of your health and other needs.

So, what’s the solution?

First of all, if you’re not in a committed relationship, make sure that you’re very clear about your expectations with any future partner. My husband and I had many frank discussions before we got engaged about those issues. (I also take credit for choosing well – I knew he had that mindset when I met him. But believe me, many of the guys I had dated before didn’t!)

If you are already in a relationship and are frustrated about a disparate amount of household duties, it’s time to have a heart-to-heart conversation. Sometimes, people have fallen into habits that they assume everyone is happy with.

When you’re looking at the responsibilities, decide which ones you can “outsource.” For example, if you’re making a decent amount of money, you should be able to budget getting a cleaning service.

Most importantly, understand that you deserve to have time to yourself—it will make you happier, healthier, and more successful at work!

P.S. If anyone’s spouse/partner objects to this, send them my way!

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