When it comes to household responsibilities, one parent often bears the brunt of the work more than the other. This load tends to go unrecognized—unless you’re a dad. For some men, completing chores becomes a moment of pride, where they display their cleaning feats, eagerly seeking acknowledgment for “pitching in.” Recently, Lisa Turner, a mom from “Mom’s Perspective,” shared a viral video on Facebook where she expressed her thoughts on her husband’s quest for praise after doing some household tasks.
After returning from a church service, Lisa noticed nothing unusual, but her husband felt the need to highlight his accomplishments around the house. He listed everyday tasks like vacuuming and washing dishes, wondering why she hadn’t immediately noticed his efforts. “Did you like it? Did I do a good job?” he asked, to which she thanked him. However, this exchange left Lisa pondering why her husband craved validation for chores she and many others handle routinely. Curious, she posed the question to her Facebook friends, prompting a flood of responses.
And lo and behold, the mansplainers arrived.
Humorous Reactions
Some reactions were humorous: “As men, we often feel underappreciated when it comes to housework, because let’s face it, we’re not as skilled. So when we manage to do something that women excel at, we crave recognition. I just told my wife I successfully put on deodorant today. She says I’m maturing too quickly.”
Reasonable Takes
Others offered a more reasonable take: “Everyone deserves acknowledgment for their contributions, whether at home, work, or anywhere else. People don’t necessarily seek praise, but it makes them feel valued, which enhances our communities.”
Condescending Advice
Then, the comments took a turn, with some offering condescending advice: “If you went into his workspace and organized everything without telling him, wouldn’t you expect him to notice? It’s the same principle. When roles shift, a little acknowledgment goes a long way.”
Bizarre Suggestions
The conversation quickly veered into bizarre territory, with one commenter suggesting that since Lisa went to church and the gym while her husband handled chores, she should be grateful for his help. “What about all the things he does that you don’t, like car maintenance and finances?” he mused.
One particularly misguided commenter equated a woman getting a haircut to a man’s regular hygiene routine, saying, “Next time my wife asks if I notice something different about her, I’ll remind her that personal grooming doesn’t warrant praise.”
And then there was the man who kicked things off with “Ladies,” asserting that after their husbands do yard work, they should reward them with a beer and some affection. “Trust me, he’ll cut the grass in winter if you give him that incentive,” he claimed.
The Cooking Debate
Of course, the pinnacle of the discussion hinged on the idea of thanking women for cooking meals—an obvious necessity, right?
Conclusion
Ultimately, this debate isn’t likely to find resolution anytime soon. The takeaway is simple: Every couple needs to define what works for them. While it may not be necessary to roll out the red carpet for every tiny chore, expressing gratitude and appreciation can significantly contribute to a harmonious relationship. After all, everyone enjoys having their efforts recognized by their partner.
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In summary, open communication between partners about chores and recognition can foster a more balanced and appreciative home environment.