How can something so invisible feel so heavy.
I started questioning why my brain was feeling so broken at the end of the day. Why, by the time I needed to get through the last few hours before bedtime, I was losing the ability speak in full sentences or even remember the names of my children and husband. I felt like I was hitting a wall. Where was this mental fatigue coming from?
Then I came across the theory of “The Mental Load”. The ongoing “behind the scenes” work that happens in our minds – so not just the doing of tasks but planning and remembering them – anticipating the needs of others and keeping track of everything.
So, I had the idea of showing what it could look like, to make it more visible. Maybe that would help others understand what it is that so many of us carry, each and every day.
Ok, let’s give it a go.
Is that the time?! I should have gotten up 10 minutes ago.
What should I make the kids for lunch today. Do I need to get more snacks?
Was there anything I forgot to sign. We didn't do homework yesterday.
Who has what sports today.
What should I wear?
I better get to that washing later. Is it going to be sunny today?
Let's check the weather.
Ok school fees and rent are all paid, thank goodness.
Autumn is definitely here - I need to sort through the kids' clothes soon.
The fridge is looking a bit empty - I don't feel like facing the shops today.
What's for dinner, do we have something for lunch. I hope she eats something for breakfast.
We need to see the optometrist. Appointment with the teacher later at 15:30.
I have so much work to catch up on.
I need to wash the bedding soon.
Did he just sneeze?! I hope that's not a runny nose.
Don't forget civvies day next week. I need ideas for idiom dress up day.
What's for lunch? I need to be more organized.
I really need new trainers - why do they cost so much!
Gym. I need to drink more water.
They better wear jackets today.
Can't believe term 1 is almost over - what am I going to keep them busy with these school holidays.
I need to reply to my WhatsApp messages.
I miss my parents. I wonder how my brother is doing.
I better write down that blog post idea. Stop doom scrolling. I love this song!
I'm so tired.
I better get dinner started on time today... Wait, what's for dinner?!
This is my illustration of The Mental Load.
So next time you see someone who looks like they have the world on their shoulders, maybe it’s because they’re carrying so much more than what the eye can see.
Be kind.
“The Key to juggling is to know that some of the balls you have in the air are made of plastic and some are made of glass.” – Nora Roberts