How to Make the Best of Your Spouse's Difficult Work Schedule

Not all work schedules are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Work schedules can shift across the 24-hour day and even into the next day. When you are married or with someone that has a different work schedule than you, things can be a bit different than the average relationship.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. If you do not like your spouse's schedule, discuss it once and be rational. Is your spouse doing this job for financial reasons or because he or she likes the job shift? Or is this just a temporary stepping stone in climbing the career path. Once you understand, maybe you will have an easier time dealing with it.

2. If you have children and your spouse is constantly scheduled to work through the children's school and extracurricular activities, take videos and pictures to keep your partner up to speed.

3. When there is a time that you and your partner are able to spend time without one of you needing to rush off to work or rush off to bed, make the most of it. Plan a dinner or a movie. Reconnect and enjoy the little time you do have together.

4. Recruit help from friends and family when you need to have things done and you cannot do it alone. There is no shame in asking for help. You are human after all.

5. Don't use the shift difference or odd work schedule as a tool to make your partner feel guilty. This will only cause hostility and resentment, as well make your partner more inclined to set you free, thinking it will make you happy.

Tips & Warnings

• Be patient, honest and kind.