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- My husband and I split our household chores based on our strengths and interests. We joke that I’m the CEO of our house, and he’s the COO. (businessinsider.com)
Clever Division of Labor Keeps This Couple’s Household Humming
One couple has a unique approach to divvying up household chores: they’ve adopted a “CEO/COO” model. The wife, a self-described big-picture person, handles tasks like meal planning and scheduling, while her husband, the “COO,” tackles the day-to-day operations, turning plans into action.
This system evolved organically, playing to each individual’s strengths and interests. She enjoys the organizational aspects, from color-coded calendars to anticipating future needs.
He thrives on tasks like gardening and, surprisingly, doing the dishes. This division allows her to manage the mental load while he executes the tasks.
She plans the meals; he often cooks them. She registers the kids for activities; he takes them to the events.
Remarkably, this method minimizes resentment. By focusing on tasks they enjoy, they avoid keeping score.
They also recognize that different chores have different energy costs, not just time costs. While she finds pantry organization enjoyable, he prefers mowing the lawn.
Respecting these preferences contributes to a more harmonious household.
Naturally, some chores are universally disliked. In these cases, they assess who has the capacity to handle the task, sometimes splitting it or simply taking turns shouldering the burden.
Open communication is key, allowing each to acknowledge when they’ve reached their limit, enabling the other to step in. It’s a flexible system that, for this couple, seems to be the perfect recipe for a smoothly run household.