You don’t have to do it all: is it time to outsource?   

We all know the saying: “If you want something done, ask a busy woman.”


But at some point, that saying turns from flattering… to exhausting.

In my work with women navigating grief, identity shifts, solo parenting, and all forms of overwhelm, I’ve learnt one powerful truth.

Women aren’t struggling because they’re incapable, they’re struggling because they’re carrying too much.

And too often, we mistake capacity for expectation.
We assume we should be able to manage everything: the house, the kids, the work deadlines, the appointments, the birthdays, the emotional load… all while still showing up with a smile.

But there’s a limit to what any human nervous system can carry.

And the moment life throws something unexpected — grief, illness, burnout, a big project, a major transition — that load becomes unsustainable.

This is where outsourcing becomes a lifeline as a strategic act of self-leadership.

Outsourcing is not admitting defeat

Outsourcing says:

- “My time matters.”
- “My wellbeing matters.”
- “I don’t have to be everything to everyone.”
- “I’m allowed to focus on the things only I can do.”

In seasons of intense overwhelm, whether from parenting, career load, health challenges, or grief, outsourcing can literally be what keeps you afloat.

But even outside those seasons, outsourcing is a skill that protects your energy so you can lead, grow, and live with more clarity and less chaos.

It also teaches you a powerful leadership principle.

Effective leaders don’t do everything themselves. They delegate, prioritise, and protect their mental bandwidth for the things that matter most.

What outsourcing can look like (that you may not have considered)

Outsourcing doesn’t have to be expensive or permanent.
It can be small, part-time, seasonal, or even temporary.
It might look like:
- Ordering groceries online instead of going in-store
- Hiring a cleaner once a month, not weekly
- Getting a neighbour or grandparent to drive kids to sport
- Paying someone to build your furniture or install the car seats
- Using meal kits during busy weeks

And supported women can do extraordinary things, in their careers, in their homes, and in their personal growth.

Why I created a free outsourcing guide

I created a free guide with 55 tasks women can outsource today, from household workload to childcare, admin to emotional labour.

It’s not about doing less.
It’s about doing what matters, with more space, more clarity, and more energy.
You can download it here: https://www.yellowfalcon.com.au/outsourcing-opt-in 

A final thought

You weren’t meant to carry everything alone.
The strongest women aren’t the ones doing the most, they’re the ones who know what to put down, what to delegate, and what truly deserves their attention.

If you’re overwhelmed, stretched thin, or simply ready for a bit more ease…
outsourcing might be the first step back to breathing room.

And you are absolutely worthy of that.