Parenting—A Shared Responsibility

We’ve Been Told That Parenting Instincts Will Guide Us. But Is That Enough?

For generations, we've heard that women are better caregivers, whoever conjured that myth ? There’s a belief that mothers have a ‘special’ instinct that allows them to be better carers and that this motherly instinct will guide them through the challenges of raising children. Dads are usually exempted from the rigorous lecture on how to raise a child which not only involves caring alone for the child but also caring for the home and sharing parenting responsibilities. In today’s world, ‘motherly instinct’ alone isn’t enough, one partner alone cannot tend to the child and also carry more responsibilities of tending to the home. Parenting is one of the most demanding roles in life, yet society often romanticizes it as something that comes naturally—especially for mothers. We hear phrases like “a mother’s instinct will always know what to do” or “you’ll figure it out when the time comes.” But instinct alone isn’t enough. Parenting requires support, shared responsibility, and intentional action to ensure both parents are equally involved. 

As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2025, with the theme "Accelerate Action," it’s time to challenge outdated beliefs and create real change. The mental and emotional labour of parenting shouldn’t fall on one person alone. A more equal future starts with shifting our mindset and redefining what it truly means to be a parent.

The Myth of Instinct: Why “Mothers Just Know” is Harmful

While there’s no denying that parents develop deep connections with their children, the idea that women are biologically wired to just know what to do is misleading and damaging. It places immense pressure on mothers to be primary caregivers, decision-makers, and household managers—all while balancing careers, relationships, and personal well-being.

This expectation leads to burnout and guilt, as many mothers feel they must do it all without asking for help. Meanwhile, fathers are often viewed as secondary or optional caregivers rather than equal partners. If we want to accelerate action toward gender equality, we must challenge the idea that parenting is an individual instinct rather than a shared effort.

The Invisible Labor: The Mental Load Mothers Carry

Even in households where both parents work full-time, studies show that women still take on the majority of childcare and household responsibilities. Beyond physical tasks, there’s an invisible labour—the mental load—that often goes unnoticed:

• Keeping track of doctor’s appointments, school activities, and social events.

• Planning meals, making grocery lists, and ensuring daily routines run smoothly.

• Handling emotional support for children, partners, and even extended family.

• Remembering birthdays, buying gifts, and organizing holidays.

This constant thinking, planning, and managing takes a toll, yet it’s rarely acknowledged as work. The burden falls disproportionately on mothers, reinforcing gender imbalances at home and in the workplace.

Parenting as a Shared Responsibility: The Future We Need

It’s time to move beyond passive support and take real steps toward equality. Mothers shouldn’t have to fight for balance in their own homes or workplaces. The next generation of parents deserves a reality where responsibilities are shared, mental loads are acknowledged, and no one is left carrying the burden alone, they need to know that parenting isn’t ‘helping’, it’s a shared responsibility. 

Accelerating action isn’t just about empowering women—it’s about creating a world where parenting is recognized as an equal partnership.

So, as we celebrate International Women’s Day, let’s ask ourselves:

What’s one action you can take today to share the parenting load?

 When we accelerate action, we create a better future—not just for women, but for families, children, and society as a whole.

#AccelerateAction #SharedParenting