Many relationships fail for work reasons: too much travel, too little time together, and too much relocation. It’s not easy, but it’s possible to manage a relationship and two careers.
Here are three tips for doing so:
- Actively manage expectations. Unspoken expectations often lead to disappointment and miscommunication in a relationship. Be clear about what you want and need from each other in regard to daily routines and ways of working.
- Schedule your spouse. Put the same effort into carving out time together as you do scheduling work and other social events.
- Bring your work home and your home to work. Work and family shouldn’t occupy completely separate spheres. Find ways to integrate them thoughtfully. Create opportunities for your partner to meet your colleagues and make time to meet his or hers.
Adapted from “How Two-Career Couples Stay Happy” by Jackie Coleman and John Coleman.
