Pay Dirt is Slate’s money advice column that offers insightful guidance on financial matters. Readers can submit their questions anonymously to Athena, Kristin, and Ilyce for expert advice. In a recent column, a reader shared their dilemma about the division of household responsibilities after a significant career change for their spouse. The reader, now the primary earner, expressed frustration at shouldering most of the household chores despite working long hours. Their spouse, who transitioned to a part-time job, was unwilling to pick up the slack, citing past arrangements when they were the higher earner.
The reader sought advice on how to address this imbalance, and the response was practical and empathetic. The columnist suggested creating a list of household tasks and alternating responsibilities with the spouse. The Fair Play system, a resource for redistributing tasks in relationships, was recommended for a structured approach. The columnist emphasized the importance of open communication and mutual effort in maintaining a balanced partnership.
In another query, a reader raised ethical concerns about hiring teenagers for office work during the summer. The reader, a business owner, wanted to provide learning opportunities in graphic design and data analytics to responsible teenagers. The columnist commended the initiative but advised caution regarding labor laws and the need for clear expectations and guidance in a professional setting.
Furthermore, a reader shared their frustration about subsidizing their car-free friends’ lifestyle by providing transportation for weekend adventures. The reader, an advocate for sustainable living, felt resentful when their friends failed to reciprocate or contribute to gas expenses. The columnist encouraged the reader to address the issue directly with their friends and set boundaries to avoid feeling exploited.
Overall, the Pay Dirt column offers practical solutions and thoughtful insights on a range of financial and interpersonal challenges. Readers can benefit from the expert advice provided by the columnists and gain valuable perspectives on navigating complex money-related issues. If you have a question or dilemma related to finances, submitting it to Pay Dirt could lead to helpful guidance and clarity on your situation.
