Your career is important to you. Your drive to find success takes a lot of time, concentration and effort. This is especially true for entrepreneurs. Small businesses often thrive or fail dependent on the actions and dedication of their owners.
Unfortunately, one of the common casualties of this dedication is the health and well-being of our relationships. This doesn’t have to be your story, though. The same drive to succeed and willingness to work that brings you professional success can help you build a satisfying relationship.
As both partners in marriage and partners in business, Molly and I know about the unique challenges that can come with this territory. The key to finding success both in business and in love is learning to strike a balance between these competing demands so that neither has to suffer for the sake of the other.
- Set Boundaries and Work Hours
One of the most common complaints made by spouses of entrepreneurs is feeling neglected. This can be true even if both of you work for the business. Set hours so that when you are at “work,” you’re at work. When you are not, you are instead working on your home life. If your business demands a lot of time to be successful, that’s ok as long as those boundaries are valued– and respected.
- Make Your Non-Work Hours Count
Despite what Disney would have us believe, relationships require sustained work to be happy. Find time to put into the relationship. Go on dates, have conversations (about something other than work or the kids), discover common interests or hobbies. Take every opportunity to show appreciation and gratitude.
- Don’t treat your partner like an employee (or a competitor)
Are you the boss at work? When you are the one in charge, it can be difficult to set that mantle aside when you come home–especially if your office is in your home. Are you in sales? The negotiation skills you use to crush the competition can just as easily damage your romance. Learn to use language that communicates respect and appreciation for your partner. Be willing to listen, and to find compromise.
- Take care of yourself
If your business takes a lot out of you, be sure you are putting a lot in. If you are depleted, you won’t be able to do what you need to do to succeed at building a strong, flexible relationship. Get enough sleep, eat healthy foods, exercise. Find time to play and to relax. Good self-care will make you perform better at your job and will help you be the partner you want to be. It will also help you live long enough to enjoy the fruits of your labors.
Success in business will mean little if you or your relationship are casualties. Intention and effort can help you to succeed at building the life and career you want. Set the intention to start putting right effort into your relationship today.