The Magic That Can Be Created When They Are “Together, Together”
Many HR professionals caution against workplace romances, citing the potential for disruption should it go sour. Some extend the same warning to entrepreneurship; however, we take issue with this assertion – whilst running a business whilst in a relationship carries risks, so does the very act of starting one in the first place.
The truth of the matter is this: there is always a chance things may go wrong, but there are enormous benefits which can be enjoyed by couples who choose to go into business together. We’ll explain a few of these in the paragraphs below…
Feed off each other’s strengths
Although you may have been brought together by shared interests, some of your character traits may be quite different. You may be an analytical genius, making you adept at keeping business finances in line, but your spouse might excel at creative pursuits like marketing.
As you build your company from the ground up, carve out roles which leverage your strengths. This allows you to power through early obstacles, turbocharging the growth of your business during its crucial start-up stage.
Two minds are better than one
It’s difficult to grow a business by yourself. Having an intelligent partner will help immensely, as they possess insights you don’t have, and they can challenge you on your ideas (and vice versa).
You spend considerable amounts of time with them, allowing your partner to debate concepts on a deeper level with each other.
When done in a respectful and loving manner, this ongoing exchange of knowledge will only help bolster each other’s core competencies, boosting the results of your company over time.
Hard days become far more bearable
In business, you will experience lofty, sugar highs on some days, only to experience crushing, depressive lows months later. Entrepreneurship can be a roller coaster, making it important to learn how to manage your emotions effectively.
Sometimes, though, a setback can be so overwhelming it can inhibit your ability to function. When you are in business as a couple, not only can your spouse bear your workload whilst you lick your wounds, they can also provide emotional support a platonic business partner may not be able to offer you.
Successes become sweeter
Rough times at work can be rather unpleasant, but they never last. The storm always gives way to bright sunshine, and so it is with your professional life. When you score big wins (landing your first six-figure contract, a massive testimonial from a name brand, etc) as a solopreneur, it feels good, but often they ring hollow, leaving you an empty feeling of unfulfillment.
When you win big with your love by your side, the joy created will make you feel alive in a way few other experiences in life can. Even when you achieve small victories (finishing off a big project, anniversaries of being in business, etc), these days will be made all the better by having your spouse alongside you.
Give each other space when needed
As much of a boon working with your life partner can be, there are times when hectic schedules and stressful situations can drive an emotional wedge between the two of you. When this happens, it is important to give each other space whilst dealing with tasks which need to get done.
Do this, and you’ll clear up the strife afflicting your workplace. However, if you fail to stay out of each other’s way when work needs to be completed, you may end up creating problems in your relationship which could have been easily avoided.
Author Bio
Kate is a well known and successful personal coach to entrepreneurs. Her background in sales, management, team building, and franchising means that her clients receive a well-rounded holistic approach to improving their business, whilst her personal focus on health, relationship, and spirituality adds an extra dimension of heart to her practice.
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