The phrase refers to a resource created by Eve Rodsky designed to facilitate a more equitable division of household labor and childcare responsibilities. This resource often takes the form of a card deck, with each card representing a specific domestic task. A PDF version allows for digital access and distribution of the deck’s contents. The purpose is to visualize and discuss the mental load associated with running a household, promoting a fairer allocation of work between partners.
This system addresses the often-unequal distribution of domestic duties that can lead to stress and resentment within relationships. By making the invisible labor of household management visible and tangible, it encourages open communication and collaborative problem-solving. Its significance lies in its ability to empower individuals to articulate their needs and negotiate a more balanced workload, contributing to greater relationship satisfaction. Historically, traditional gender roles often placed the burden of domestic work disproportionately on one partner; this tool seeks to challenge and rectify that imbalance.