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Why Outsourcing Chores Gives You Your Time Back
We don’t talk enough about the value of offloading domestic work as solopreneurs. This week, I revisited a habit I’ve had for decades: hiring a house cleaner. It’s not about luxury—it’s about reclaiming time, reducing stress, and preserving energy for the things that matter most.
What Worked Well
I’ve had professional cleaning support for a long time because my time is better spent working. Even when I worked in corporate, I saw the benefits: the house was clean, I felt more relaxed, and I didn’t lose hours of precious downtime scrubbing floors or bathrooms.
Challenges: Getting Over the Guilt
One ongoing challenge is that we often think we should be able to do it all—especially as women business owners. But letting go of that expectation opened the door to a better work-life balance. Hiring help at home means I actually rest when I’m not working.
A Surprising Benefit: Less Relationship Tension
One thing I didn’t expect? A better relationship with my partner. When we’re not arguing over who’s doing what at home, everything runs more smoothly. We both benefit from the extra help.
Tools & Resources That Helped
- Personal Referrals – I always ask friends or neighbors for cleaner recommendations rather than going through big companies.
- BNI – A solid resource if you’re looking for trusted referrals in your local area.
Lessons Learned
This habit reinforced a bigger truth: taking anything off your plate—at home or at work—can make a huge difference. For solopreneurs, time is our most valuable asset. Outsourcing household chores is one of the simplest ways to protect it.
Moving Forward
I plan to keep this habit in place. The only prep I do before cleanings is picking up so the deep cleaning actually gets done. It’s a routine that supports both my business and my personal life.
How You Can Implement This Habit
Start small. Schedule a one-time deep cleaning and pay attention to how you feel afterward. If walking into a clean house brings instant relief, it may be worth budgeting for regular cleanings. Don’t overthink it—see how it fits your needs and lifestyle. And no need to justify it with a spreadsheet. If it helps you breathe easier, it’s doing its job.
about the author
Cami MacNamara is a web designer and owner of WebCami LLC, a Seattle-based agency since 2002. She created Web Designer Habits to help web designers build smarter systems, stay productive, and run a business that works for them.