Invisibility is not a superpower at home.

This involves tangible tasks that are physically performed and can often be observed. Examples include cleaning the house, doing laundry, preparing meals, mowing the lawn, and changing a car’s oil

This type of labor typically involves tasks related to paperwork, organization, and administration, often performed on a computer or with physical documents. Examples include sorting mail, paying bills, scheduling appointments, updating documents, and sending emails

This refers to the invisible mental effort of planning, remembering, organizing, and managing tasks. Examples include remembering birthdays and planning celebrations, keeping track of household supplies and replenishing them, anticipating upcoming events and preparing for them, and coordinating schedules with family members

This refers to the invisible mental effort of planning, remembering, organizing, and managing tasks. Carrying these responsibilities in your mind are often referred to as mental load. Examples include remembering birthdays and planning celebrations, keeping track of household supplies and replenishing them, anticipating upcoming events and preparing for them, and coordinating schedules with family members.

This specific category of cognitive labor involves actively seeking out information, learning new skills, and educating oneself or others. Examples include researching car maintenance needs, understanding a child’s developmental milestones and choosing appropriate activities, and learning how to care for a child’s hair

This labor involves managing one’s own emotions and considering the emotional needs of others. It often involves anticipating emotional responses, adjusting communication style to avoid conflict, and offering support and reassurance. Examples include soothing a child during a meltdown, managing anxiety about a car inspection, and considering a partner’s feelings about spending money.

Care labor is any work that involves caring for another human being, often involving domestic tasks, emotional support, and cognitive planning to ensure their well-being. Examples include making meals for family members, changing diapers or potty training, or caring for an aging family member.

This is the effort of maintaining family and social connections, including planning gatherings, remembering important dates, and initiating communication. Examples include organizing family events, staying in touch with distant relatives, and fostering relationships with friends.

This term refers to the transformative process of becoming a mother, encompassing physical, emotional, social, and psychological changes. It involves adjusting to a new identity and navigating societal expectations and pressures.