It’s not in your head — the research is clear.

In this episode of Balancing the Cards, host Betty Johnson is joined by Fair Play Facilitator Rachel Burlton to examine what the evidence actually shows about mental load, cognitive labour, and why this invisible work has such profound consequences for women’s wellbeing, relationships, and careers.

Together, they explore:

• What research consistently reveals about who carries the mental load at home
• Why cognitive labour is “always-on” work — and why it matters more than physical tasks
• The direct link between mental load, burnout, and women’s leadership and career progression
• How culture, class, race, health, immigration status, and other factors compound the load
• Why one-size-fits-all solutions don’t work — and how The Fair Play Method must be adapted to real-life constraints

This episode moves beyond averages to an intersectional lens, naming how overlapping systems of inequality shape family life differently for different women. It also makes the case that mental load is not just a private household issue, but a structural barrier to women’s full participation in public and professional life.

Key takeaway:
If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed by invisible work, you’re not imagining it — the research validates your experience.

🎧 This week’s reflection: Identify one cultural expectation you’ve inherited without choosing. Is it still serving your household today?

A Year-End Reflection Journey

You're standing at the edge of a new year, but something doesn't feel right. Parts of your life feel broken. You've tried to fix things before, but nothing stuck. You're tired of the cycle—big resolutions in January, slow fade by March, disappointment by December.

[THE PROBLEM]

You've got three enemies working against you:

• External Problem: The year is ending and you haven't achieved what you hoped for
• Internal Problem: You feel stuck, overwhelmed, and don't know where to start
• Philosophical Problem: You deserve a life that's intentional, not accidental

[MEET YOUR GUIDE]

There's an ancient story about a man named Nehemiah who faced impossible odds. His city's walls were destroyed. Critics said it couldn't be rebuilt. But in just 52 days, he and his team accomplished what seemed impossible.

Here's his secret: Before he built anything, he inspected everything. He counted the cost. He made a plan. And he got everyone working on their specific section.

[THE PLAN]

Over the next 10 days, you'll follow Nehemiah's proven framework:

• Days 1-3: ASSESS THE RUINS (See clearly where you are)
• Days 4-7: REBUILD WITH PURPOSE (Focus your energy on what matters)
• Days 8-10: GUARD THE GATES (Protect what you build)

[THE CALL TO ACTION]

Grab a journal. Block 15 minutes each day for the next 10 days. Let's turn this around together.

[VISION OF SUCCESS]

Imagine walking into 2026 with clarity, not confusion. With a plan, not just hope. With boundaries that protect your peace. That's where we're headed.

Discover the 4 principles of The Fair Play Method that transform household equality: All Time is Created Equal, C-P-E Ownership, Minimum Standards of Care & Unicorn Space. Learn how to end invisible work and mental load.

Keywords: Fair Play Method, mental load, household equality, invisible work, cognitive labour, time equality, unicorn space, domestic equity