Many of us do invisible labour and it can often be the reason we feel unrecognized, undervalued and sad. However, it can often be difficult to identify.
Invisible labor refers to work that many of us perform daily, which goes unrecognized, uncompensated, or undervalued. It can happen both at work and in our personal relationships. Invisible labour may include household chores, providing caregiving, or offering emotional support to family members and friends. These tasks are essential for our well-being and daily functioning, yet they are rarely acknowledged, and their value is seldom appreciated.
Invisible labour is particularly common among women and marginalized groups, who tend to shoulder more of this burden due to traditional gender roles and societal expectations. Research indicates that women often perform significantly more invisible labor in both personal and professional settings, from maintaining the household to providing emotional support in the workplace. This disparity contributes to social inequality, reinforcing systemic inequities that keep certain groups undervalued and overworked.
The consequences of invisible labor can be profound. Constantly performing unacknowledged work can lead you to feel exhausted, undervalued, and unappreciated, affecting mental and emotional health over time. Recognizing where invisible labor occurs in our lives—such as one person always initiating plans or supporting the other without reciprocation—can be a crucial first step toward change. Open communication in relationships and establishing a fairer division of responsibilities can help create healthier, more balanced dynamics. Addressing invisible labor is essential for promoting equality and appreciation in our relationships and communities.
Feels familiar?
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