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Budget and the Bees
Budget and the Bees
Latrice Perez

Why Women Are Saying “No” to Relationships That Feel Like a Second Job

Relationships That Feel Like a Second Job
Image source: shutterstock.com

Love should be a sanctuary. However, for many women, it feels like a shift at a factory. They manage the household, the emotions, and the calendar. Unfortunately, this dynamic is exhausting. Consequently, women are waking up. They are rejecting the role of “household manager.” Instead, they want partners, not projects. Relationships that feel like a second job are being cancelled. Therefore, here is why the tide is turning.

1. The Mental Load is Crushing

For example, you remember the birthdays. Then, you know when the dog needs shots. Also, tracking the grocery inventory falls on you. This invisible labor is heavy. In fact, it occupies your brain space constantly. Meanwhile, your partner just waits for instructions. Sadly, this creates a parent-child dynamic. Ultimately, women are tired of being the nag.

2. We Have Our Own Money Now

Historically, women needed marriage for survival. However, that is no longer true. We earn our own livings. Furthermore, we can buy our own houses. Therefore, tolerance for bad behavior is low. If a man brings more work than joy, he is unnecessary. Truly, financial freedom gives us the power to say no.

3. The “Man-Child” Epidemic

Some men refuse to grow up. Instead, they want a replacement for their mother. They leave towels on the floor. Then, they ask, “What’s for dinner?” every night. This kills desire instantly. Actually, it is impossible to be attracted to a dependent. Women want an equal. So, we are refusing to raise grown men.

4. The Exhaustion of “Teaching”

“Just tell me what to do.” This phrase triggers rage. Implicitly, it suggests you are the boss. Also, it forces you to delegate and supervise. We don’t want to teach you how to load a dishwasher. Nor do we want to explain empathy. If you are an adult, figure it out. After all, Google is free.

5. We Value Our Peace

Single life is peaceful. For instance, the house stays clean. Also, the schedule is yours. Why disrupt that for stress? A relationship must add value. However, if it adds chaos and laundry, it isn’t worth it. Solitude is better than servitude. Therefore, we are choosing peace over performing.

6. The Imbalance of Emotional Labor

We process the relationship issues. Then, we bring up the hard conversations. Conversely, men often check out emotionally. This leaves us lonely in the partnership. Carrying the emotional weight is work. Eventually, it leads to resentment. We are done being the only ones trying. It takes two to make a relationship work.

7. The Standard Has Raised

We see healthy relationships online. Also, we see women thriving solo. The bar is no longer “he doesn’t hit me.” Instead, the bar is “he enriches my life.” Mediocrity is no longer acceptable. We want deep connection and shared responsibility. If you can’t meet us there, we will walk. The era of settling is ending.

8. Self-Care is a Priority

We prioritize our health now. Unfortunately, managing a man-child destroys mental health. It causes anxiety and fatigue. Therefore, we are choosing our wellness. We go to therapy. Also, we go to the gym. We don’t have time to baby a partner. Our energy is for us.

Partnership or Nothing

It is not too much to ask for equality. In fact, you deserve an adult partner who contributes joy to your life. Stop accepting relationships that feel like a second, unpaid job. If he can’t carry his weight, then let him go. Your happiness depends on your standards, and you are worth the wait.

Tell Us Your Story

Have you ended a relationship because it felt like too much work? Share your experience in the comments below.

What to Read Next…

The post Why Women Are Saying “No” to Relationships That Feel Like a Second Job appeared first on Budget and the Bees.

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