Hidden Costs of Convenience

Jan 19 , 2024
By Kidist Yidnekachew

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I was suddenly confronted with the reality of domestic tasks that had been conveniently taken care of before when my help had to leave for the countryside to visit her family.

While my husband does lend a helping hand, the workload appears insurmountable for two people. Our recent move to a new house has only added to the chaos, with clothes and belongings scattered around, waiting to find their place. Moving by itself was a demanding process, and cleaning the old space thoroughly was a challenge we could not fully meet as time slipped away faster than we anticipated. This experience led me to ponder the reliance we place on our household assistants.

Living with a housemaid has always made life seem more manageable. The dishes got done, the floors stayed spotless, and life seemed to function smoothly. The convenience of having a clean and organised home without personally attending to every chore is undoubtedly appealing.

With all that is going on in the fast-paced world, the temptation to delegate domestic responsibilities to a trustworthy housemaid is strong. However, this arrangement goes beyond convenience; it involves surrendering a part of our responsibility.

Having a housemaid feels liberating at first. Time once spent on household chores can now be directed towards personal projects, side hustles, or simply moments of leisure. Dishes pile up, not out of negligence, but because there is a belief that someone else will handle them eventually. However, this convenience transforms into a subtle dependence.

The apartment that was once our sanctuary becomes a stage set by someone else, and the detachment becomes palpable.

The most insidious consequence of relying on housemaids is the erosion of self-reliance. Chores are not merely tasks but opportunities to develop essential life skills. Folding laundry teaches patience and precision, cleaning spills sharpens problem-solving abilities, and maintaining a home instils a sense of ownership and responsibility.

Outsourcing these tasks means giving away a crucial part of personal growth.

Engaging in household chores, even the mundane ones, has therapeutic benefits. Cleaning becomes a form of release and a physical representation of facing life's challenges. It connects individuals with the present moment, offering a contrast to the constant chaos of the digital world. Delegating these tasks means missing out on these opportunities for self-reflection and reconnection.

While hiring housemaids is necessary for some, those with a choice should consider the hidden costs involved. The consequences extend beyond personal to societal impacts. I believe a culture that prioritises convenience can harbour entitlement, expecting a life without obstacles and quick solutions to problems. The fruits of such trees are impatience and a disconnect from the community.

Breaking free from the allure of convenience begins with a conscious shift in perspective. Instead of viewing house chores as burdens, we need to see them as opportunities for self-reliance, connection with the living space, and moments of mindfulness. Starting with small steps, like dusting a shelf or folding laundry, can lead to a sense of satisfaction and pride in taking care of our environment.

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PUBLISHED ON Jan 19,2024 [ VOL 24 , NO 1238]

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