In a study by the University of British Columbia and Harvard Business School that surprised exactly zero exhausted parents everywhere, buying material items won’t make you happy, but buying time will.
It seems a bit obvious that having someone attend to chores you dislike will make you happier, but the study also showed even little things like shopping at a more expensive grocery store that is closer to your home will remove money from your actual bank but add to your happiness bank.
Sadly, people aren’t investing in themselves, and the question is, why?
Anne Radcliffe, Editor at YMC may have the answer: Guilt and fear of judgement.
Even though she works full-time from home, she still felt she needed to keep on top of all the housework. It wasn’t until she hit her breaking point that she allowed herself to do what she says is, flat out, one of the smartest things she’s ever done.
Personally, I’m okay with the housework load at our home thanks to two sons on summer vacation who are given chores to do each day before they can have tech. But meals? That’s a whole other story. Having to plan out meals, go grocery shopping, and prep everything was stressing me out, so I invested in a meal delivery service that drops off the fresh ingredients for three meals each week. Just having those three days where I don’t have to think about what I’m going to make has eased my stress levels.
Jeni Marinucci, Editor-in-Chief at YMC swears by grocery shopping online. She then picks up her order at a set time, and voila! She hasn’t stepped foot in a grocery store for a very long time.
Even if you love grocery shopping, prepping meals, and cleaning your house, there are lots of other things you can outsource.
Just picked up a new bookcase from IKEA and the thought of spending the next six hours with an allen wrench has your trosors (that's the Swedish word for panties) in a knot? You can hire someone to do it for you.
I personally love walking dogs, but if you have young kids at home and the weather has you wishing for an ark, wouldn’t it be better to pay someone else to saunter in the showers while you stay cozy at home?
If you hate doing homework with your kids, hire a tutor.
Rather get a pap smear than shovel the driveway or mow your lawn? Find a neighbourhood kid who’s willing to do it for you.
I’m great with preparing school lunches for the first three months of the year, but after that, the Lunch Lady gets my money.
The point is: you don’t have to feel guilty. We all have chores we don’t like, and the small amount of money it would take to cover the cost is well worth the investment in your happiness, isn’t it?
Printer-friendly version