Member-only story
Mental Load: How to Balance Work, Life… and That Laundry You Forgot!
Why juggling it all leaves us exhausted — and how to finally find peace
Life today isn’t just about balancing work and personal life. It’s about managing an endless checklist of invisible tasks that nobody sees but everyone feels. The invisible mental load — especially shouldered by women — drains us emotionally, physically, and mentally. From remembering doctor’s appointments to meal planning while meeting deadlines, these unnoticed responsibilities often weigh heavier than any to-do list at work.
But what exactly is mental load? And why is it so devastating to our well-being?
What Is the Invisible Mental Load?
The invisible mental load is the cognitive burden of managing everyday tasks, from planning dinners to coordinating children’s schedules and paying bills. It’s the work behind the work — the planning, organizing, and remembering that keeps daily life functioning smoothly.
Picture this: You’re in a meeting, trying to focus on a presentation, but your mind drifts. “Did I schedule that dentist appointment?” “Do we have milk at home?” These constant mental interruptions erode focus and energy. This load exists not because people are incapable but because…
