A Case for Outsourcing
“I can do it, so I will do it” has been a recurring theme in my life.
I like bread? I’ll bake it myself—and make it sourdough.
I love the new dress styles in stores for my girls? I’ll sew them myself, using fabric they picked out.
I like tomatoes? I’ll grow them—and why not can salsa while I’m at it?
Thankfully, these haven’t all happened at once, but they’ve each had their season in our home. For someone who loves to simplify, there’s always room to reflect: Am I really simplifying… or just doing more under the label of “capable”?
The Line Between Resourceful and Overwhelmed
There’s real satisfaction in learning and doing things yourself. It can feel empowering and even joyful. But there’s also a line—and for me, it’s somewhere around replacing a roof or fixing a car starter. I could try, but I definitely shouldn’t. No one wants to fall off a roof or get stranded in the grocery store parking lot. These are clearly tasks best left to professionals.
But what about the in-between stuff? The things we can do—but maybe just don’t want to anymore? Laundry, cleaning, landscaping, organizing—most of us are perfectly capable of doing these things ourselves. But should we?
Lately, I’ve started to ask that question more honestly. And I’m beginning to see: there’s a case for outsourcing.
What Is Outsourcing, Really?
Simply put, outsourcing is hiring others to take on tasks you could do yourself. It’s not just for corporations or high-powered executives. It's not even just about housekeepers and personal chefs.
Here’s a current example in our home:
We’ve always done our own landscaping. In 2020, when life slowed down, we even enjoyed it. Pulling weeds one by one, spreading mulch, trimming bushes—it felt grounding. But now? Our time is stretched thin with work, travel, and a busy family of six. This year, we drew the line. While we’re still mowing our (very large) lawn—one of my favorite summer chores—we’ve finally hired pros to take over the flower beds and garden maintenance.
And it feels SO GOOD.
You're Probably Already Outsourcing
Even if the word “outsourcing” feels privileged or extravagant, you’re likely doing it already:
Childcare – Paying someone to watch your kids while you work, rest, or run errands.
Meal delivery kits – Outsourcing meal planning, grocery shopping, and even some prep.
Public transportation or ride shares – Outsourcing driving, maintenance, insurance.
Dry cleaning, tax prep, or house cleaning – All forms of handing off tasks for convenience, skill, or time.
If we think of outsourcing as a tool instead of a status symbol, it opens up new conversations about how we manage time, energy, and priorities.
Why Consider Outsourcing?
Yes, outsourcing can feel like a splurge. But there are several key benefits that are worth weighing:
Time: Our most limited, non-renewable resource.
Energy: Some tasks (even small ones) are mentally or emotionally draining.
Expertise: Hiring someone who can do it faster, better, or safer (that roof isn’t for everyone!).
Opportunity cost: What are you giving up by doing everything yourself?
Mental load relief: Simply removing something from your “to think about” list can be a huge win—especially for those navigating ADHD or busy family life.
For us, hiring landscapers didn’t just free up hours. It freed up mental space—one less thing to plan, delegate, or dread.
When Outsourcing Isn’t the Best Fit
Outsourcing isn’t always the answer. Here are some times it might not make sense:
You genuinely enjoy the task (hello, lawn mowing!).
It doesn’t fit your budget right now—and would cause stress.
It’s something you want to work on (like learning to cook).
You’re avoiding something uncomfortable that you need to face (outsourcing conflict, anyone?).
Outsourcing should be intentional—not just an escape hatch. Think of it like this: it’s okay to ask your best friend to help you through a tough situation. But it’s probably not okay to ask her to break up with your boyfriend for you… at least not past 6th grade.
How to Decide: A Quick Gut Check
Ask yourself:
Is this draining my time or energy in a way that’s not sustainable?
Would outsourcing this create breathing room for what really matters?
Is it worth the cost to me—financial, emotional, or otherwise?
Am I doing this because I value it—or because I feel like I “should”?
And if the answer leans toward outsourcing? Start small. Try it once. See how it feels. You might be surprised how much peace it brings.
Reframing Outsourcing as a Strategic Tool
Outsourcing isn’t about being lazy or indulgent—it’s about being wise with your resources. If time is money, then outsourcing is an investment. Not always financial, but often emotional, relational, or practical.
It’s not about doing less, necessarily. It’s about doing more of what matters most—and less of what doesn’t.
So, what about you?
Have you outsourced something that felt like a game changer?
What’s the most unusual thing you’ve outsourced?
I’d love to hear.
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