How to Get Out of Doing Chores

No matter what your age, there are times when doing household chores can seem impossible. Here are a few ways to get out of doing them when you really need a break:

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Act busy. People are far less likely to bring up the subject of chores when you seem deeply engrossed in work.
2. Negotiate. Often immediate chores can be traded in exchange for doing other ones later on. For instance, offer to vacuum the house in exchange for the other party doing the dishes now. Set clear time limits and stick to them.
3. Call in a favor. Sometimes reminding the other party of something nice you’ve done for them recently will let you off the hook. DON’T make it seem like bribery; instead, just casually mention it when the subject of chores rears its head.
4. Tempt the other party with activities they love, and convince them of why they ought be done now. Chances are that when the activity in question is over, they will have forgotten all about the chore.
5. Devise an exit plan. For instance, have a friend call you pretending some sort of crisis. On your way out the door, underline your desire to do the chores, but for circumstances beyond your control.
6. Fake injury or illness. Note: ONLY TO BE USED AS A LAST RESORT. The chances of this tactic backfiring is enormous. Be prepared to continue faking symptoms throughout the day.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoiding chores, like calling in sick to work, is not recommended except in special cases. Use the tactics listed above sparingly, if at all.