S5 Ep. 18 - Strategic Work vs Office Housework

In today's micro-episode we're talking about 'Strategic Work vs Office Housework'.

One that hits especially hard for working moms and women in leadership.

Because let’s be real—being “busy” is not the same as being valued.

Let’s start here. Strategic work is the kind of work that moves your career forward. It’s visible. It’s tied to outcomes. It’s what gets you promoted—leading initiatives, owning P&L, driving innovation, shaping decisions.

What is office housework?
Well, that’s the invisible glue. Scheduling meetings. Taking notes. Planning the team birthday. Mentoring without recognition. Being the “go-to” fixer. I think some of us are very familiar with that…

Is it necessary? Yes.
Career-advancing? Not usually.

And here’s the truth: women—especially working moms—are still disproportionately carrying that second category.

Now layer in motherhood.

You’re already managing logistics at home—calendars, meals, emotional labor—and then you log into work and… surprise, you’re doing it there too.

It’s like you never get to clock into the strategic part of your brain.

And in a world obsessed with productivity hacks and “leaning in,” we’re not asking the right question.

It’s not: How do I do more?
It is: Why am I being asked to do the work that doesn’t count?

So… Let’s talk trends.

There’s a growing conversation online about “quiet promotion”—where you’re given more responsibility without the title or pay. Sound familiar? That often shows up as office housework dressed up as LEADERSHIP.

Another trend? “Energy audits.” Women are starting to track not just time—but impact. Asking: Is this task moving me closer to my goals, or just keeping the machine running?

That shift? That’s power.

So, what do we do about it?

First—notice the pattern.
Second—redirect strategically.
Third—this is the hard one—let go of being the reliable one for EVERYTHING.

Because being indispensable in low-visibility work can actually make you invisible where it matters most.

And for my working moms listening—your time is already stretched. Protecting it isn’t selfish. It’s necessary.

In summary, you deserve to be known for your IMPACT, not just your availability. Strategic work builds your LEGACY. Office housework maintains someone else’s.  So, the next time something lands on your plate, ask yourself: Is this moving me forward—or just keeping me busy?

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