How to Work with Your Spouse, Part 1

Working with your spouse can be both rewarding and challenging. You may both want the same end result but chances are your vision on what path to take getting there are on the opposite sides of the spectrum. Here are some tips that have helped us.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Journals
• Daily planner
• Bulletin board/calendar

1. Communication in any kind of relationship be it business partnership or marriage. You can't survive without it.
2. Keep a notebook or journal to write down specifics of what you both want to achieve in your business and steps on how you see yourselves getting there.
3. Keep your notes nearby as you talk about and resolve ways you both achieve what you want. The notes will help to give you guidelines instead of bringing emotions into the conversation which could result in an argument instead. Remember, you are running a business and not to take things personally
4. Get your own personal space. Set your office spaces away from each other so you aren't right next to each other constantly. It doesn't have to be at opposite ends of your home but far enough that each space expresses you. You may have vowed to live as one but you are still individuals with individual needs.
5. Remind each other of why you want to be partners in the first place and take some personal time at the end of the work day together by going on an occasional date. Even if it means movie and pizza night with the kids.
6. Work off each other's strengths as a team. My husband is good at the technical side of things and I enjoy the writing and networking. This kind of teamwork can help you achieve success faster.

Tips & Warnings

• These steps are only a small part of working together successfully. You will have good days and bad days just like everyone else. Just don't forget the big picture of what the two of you could ultimately achieve.
• If things get hot and heated just walk away and take a time out. Adults need time outs too. ;)