It can be frustrating if your man comes home, sits on the couch, and does nothing. But before assuming he’s just lazy, let’s find out why. What makes men do nothing after coming home from work? It is interesting to know because it’s one of the things that is causing conflict in a relationship. However, in these modern days where women are also working, she’s also tired when returning from work. She’s still taking care of the children and the house chores, should it be so.
Here are some possible reasons why this happens and what you can do about it.
1. He’s Mentally & Physically Exhausted 
- Some jobs drain a man’s energy, both physically and mentally.
- Men tend to shut down when they’re overwhelmed, rather than talk about it.
- If he feels overworked, he might need time to recharge.
What to Do:
Ask how his day was and if he needs some time to decompress. Let him relax for a bit, then ask for help positively.
2. He Thinks Home is His “Rest Zone” 
- Some men see home as a place to unwind rather than a place for chores.
- If he grew up in a home where his mom did everything, he might not realize he should help.
What to Do: Have a conversation about shared responsibilities. Let him realise why he needs to help you before you break down. If you become sick, the children and the entire family will suffer. Say, “I’d love us to work as a team so we both get to relax.”
3. He Doesn’t See the Work That Needs to Be Done 
- Many men don’t notice dishes piling up or laundry waiting. They don’t just see it until you show them and ask for help.
- Sometimes, it’s not that they don’t care—they just don’t register it the same way women do. Most men, when you call their attention to it, can help.
What to Do: Instead of saying “You never help!”, try “Can you handle the dishes while I do this?” fx when you need to attend to the children. This has been my style, and it works when I ask him politely. Be specific about what needs to be done.
4. He’s Stressed & Using TV/Phone to Escape 
- If he spends hours scrolling or watching TV, it might be his way of coping with stress.
- Men sometimes bottle up their stress instead of talking about it.
What to Do: Check in on him. Say, “You seem distant, is everything okay?” If he’s stressed, find ways to unwind together (walks, music, talking). After that, ask him for help when you need it. He will appreciate it and probably be ready to help, because you’ve already made him feel loved. Just a little talk sometimes helps and makes him open up about what’s bothering him.
5. He Feels Unappreciated & Unmotivated 
- If he used to help but stopped, he might feel like his efforts weren’t noticed. Generally, men enjoyed that little appreciation, like thank you. It’s like a medicine that gets them to do more.
- Men respond well to encouragement rather than criticism.
What to Do: When he does help, acknowledge and appreciate it. A simple “Thank you for taking out the trash, I appreciate it” makes a difference.
6. He’s Used to Being Taken Care Of 
- If he was never expected to help at home, he might not even think about it.
- Some men assume their partner “handles the house” while they handle work. Even nowadays when women also go to work. Most men need to be reminded of that. You need to help him out instead of nagging. Men need to be told with respect and asked for help.
What to Do: Set clear expectations. Say, “I need your help to keep things balanced.” Give him responsibility for specific tasks so he knows what he has to do. Do it with love and respect, because when you command him, he will turn the whole issue into something else.
7. He’s Just Being Lazy & Needs a Wake-Up Call 
- If he has plenty of energy for video games, hanging out, or social media but ignores home duties, he might just be avoiding responsibility.
- Some men take advantage of their partner’s patience until they’re called out.
What to Do: Be direct but calm: “I love you, but I can’t do everything alone.” Let him know that you need help. Set boundaries: If he won’t help, stop doing things for him (laundry, cooking).
Final Thought 
Not all men are lazy—some are tired, stressed, or unaware. But if he keeps ignoring responsibilities, it’s time for a real conversation about teamwork. A happy home takes effort from both partners!
Do any of these sound like your man? Which approach do you think will work best? 
Let us hear it from the comment!
Also read: How to make a man chase you
