When you run a small business, there aren’t many hours left in the day (or night) for anything else. So how can you keep up a romantic partnership?
It’s difficult but not impossible. Jaime Bronstein, a licensed relationship therapist and author of the new book MAN*ifesting — gave b. her best tips for finding the right balance.
It’s All About Making Time
The most common complaint Bronstein hears from partners of entrepreneurs? They don’t block off enough time.
“Running a business is unpredictable,” she says. “The time you put into the business — and stress levels — are more unpredictable than a typical 9-to-5 job, so it requires both parties to be more communicative, intentional, and understanding of one another.”
Communication and understanding are important to any relationship, of course, but doubly so for business owners.
“As an entrepreneur, you have to put in the extra effort to communicate how much you care for your partner during busy times,” Bronstein says. “You might say to them, ‘I need to focus more on this right now, but I love you and am so excited for our date night on Saturday.’”
Also, don’t cancel that date on Saturday, because …
Trust Is Even More Important Than Normal
Let’s face it, we can all get worried if our significant other doesn’t answer our calls or texts for a while. If you have nonstop meetings — or travel frequently — and your partner’s worry becomes paranoia, that’ll cause problems.
“It is so important to have a strong foundation in your relationship and feel secure because things will come up … especially if it’s a startup and you’re wearing multiple hats,” Bronstein says. “With trust, it’s less likely that your partner will take your business personally.”
Her advice here is to share your calendar in advance, which will help keep unwarranted suspicion at bay.
“Communicate beforehand what your schedule is like and what the expectations are for that week,” Bronstein says.
Make Sure You’re Ready for a Relationship
You shouldn’t have to choose between your business and your love life. However, you also need to be honest with yourself about whether you’re in the right emotional place for the latter — and if not, how to get yourself there.
“As much as you want to take care of the other person and make sure they’re happy, you need to maintain your own well-being,” Bronstein says. “This might look like exercising, getting a manicure, spending time with your friends. … That way, you’ll be recharged, happy, present, and excited to see your partner.”
Starting a business or a relationship is difficult, let alone doing both at the same time, but with a focus on time management, communication, transparency, and self-care, you can grow them together.
