Love may benefit from a bit of financial investment in time-saving services, according to research by Ashley Whillans, a behavioral scientist and professor at Harvard Business School. Couples who spend money on services such as takeout, housecleaning, or dog walking report higher relationship satisfaction, particularly during stressful periods. Whillans focuses on the "tradeoffs people make between time and money," emphasizing that spending money to save time enhances feelings of control and autonomy, thus positively impacting well-being.

While not everyone can afford to outsource larger household chores, Whillans suggests that even minor investments can offer benefits. She recommends couples conduct a "time audit" to evaluate how they spend their hours and identify small changes that could reclaim precious moments for connection. Whillans believes that people often underestimate the significance of such choices, pointing out that it's not just about luxury but about freeing up time to foster relationships.

Whillans and her team studied busy, dual-income couples who often express feelings of being time-starved. In one six-week diary study, couples who made "time-saving purchases" on specific days reported greater happiness and satisfaction within their relationships. However, merely outsourcing tasks does not solve deeper issues; couples need to be intentional about how they utilize the time gained. Whillans stresses the importance of using this reclaimed time to connect, viewing it as a chance to bond rather than a moment to catch up on work.

Targol Hasankhani, a marriage and family therapist based in Chicago, adds that while outsourcing can alleviate daily stress, it does not replace the need for good communication. She warns that if conflicts over domestic responsibilities stem from deeper issues such as inequality or a lack of being heard, hiring help will not resolve those underlying problems. Couples must be willing to explore these layers to address their challenges effectively.

For Casey Mulligan Walsh, a 71-year-old former speech pathologist from upstate New York, hiring a housecleaner significantly changed the dynamics in her household. She shared that the best part of this service was the additional time she and her husband gained together. Instead of arguing over chores, they could go out for coffee and enjoy each other’s company, highlighting the value of shared experiences over household disputes.

Starting to delegate household tasks can be difficult for some couples. Whillans mentions that while cost and coordination may pose challenges, the long-term benefits are significant. The act of making decisions together can help build trust and a sense of teamwork within the relationship. One Colorado couple’s experience illustrates this beautifully; Melissa Jones, a 45-year-old teacher, received a deep house cleaning as a Valentine’s Day gift from her now-husband, who recognized how hard she was working as a single mom. This gesture not only relieved her stress but also initiated a continued commitment to outsourcing chores together, allowing them to focus on creating memories rather than tackling housework on the weekends.

In Miami, Elizabeth Willard operates The Pickled Beet, a culinary service that prepares customized meals for families. Many of her clients are busy families with diverse dietary needs trying to balance health and convenience. By outsourcing meal preparation, families can avoid daily arguments about dinner, thereby simplifying their routines and enhancing harmony during mealtimes.

Whether opting for takeout, hiring help for yard work, or using services that alleviate stress points like meal planning, the central theme remains that investing in time-saving services can lead to greater peace and connection within relationships.