I asked a friend how she knew things were starting to feel a little unmanageable.
She didn’t hesitate.
“Laundry.”
That’s it. That was the answer.
Not her inbox.
Not her finances.
Not her marriage.
Laundry.
And honestly? It made perfect sense.
Because when life feels steady, laundry gets folded. It goes back in drawers. Towels are fluffy.
You know where your favorite black pants are.
When life feels chaotic?
The clean clothes live in the dryer for three days.
You rewash a load because you forgot it overnight (again).
You start digging through baskets like you’re on a clearance rack at Target.
Laundry becomes less of a chore and more of a mood indicator.
It’s Not About the Socks
Laundry isn’t really about laundry.
It’s about bandwidth.
When we’re overwhelmed, our brains prioritize the big stuff. The urgent stuff. The “keep everything from falling apart” stuff.
Folding fitted sheets? Suddenly optional.
And if you’re a high-achieving, responsible, competent adult (who everyone assumes has it together), you may recognize this.
Your life might look fine from the outside.
But your laundry knows the truth.
What’s Your Version of Laundry?
Maybe it’s dishes in the sink.
Maybe it’s unopened mail.
Maybe it’s the 47 texts you fully intend to answer.
We all have that one small, ordinary thing that quietly tells us:
“Hey… you’re stretched.”
The goal isn’t to shame yourself into productivity.
It’s to notice.
To say, “Ah. The laundry is talking.”
And instead of asking, “What’s wrong with me?”
Maybe ask, “What do I need?”
Less on my plate?
More sleep?
One honest conversation?
A day where I do absolutely nothing productive?
Or maybe… just fold one load and call it a win.
Because sometimes the path back to feeling grounded starts with matching socks.
So tell me — How’s your laundry?
Love,
Certified Professional Coach and Psychologist
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How often have you wished for that person in your life who listens deeply, doesn’t judge you, and doesn’t try to fix you? That person who holds space for you to talk through your struggles, your hopes, and dreams so that you can live the personal and professional life that you truly want? I’m that person. Yes, I’m a psychologist and a professional life and leadership coach but my superpower is listening, deep, empathic, compassionate listening. If you’ve been seeking a professional listener who will help you live the life you truly desire, let’s set up a time to talk. My email is Lisa@LisaKaplin.com.