Series -- Part Two: Trust & Communication Builds Strength

I have asked so many couples who are good at working together at home how they did it, but no one could give me a specific answer. Speaking from experience, I would guess it’s because one size does not fit all. You must design your own model of working together. We have found the rewards are so powerful when you discover how to do it. But there are some elements couples do have in common in making a partnership work and it’s having trust and good communication.

Trust

Trust is a big factor with any partner so you have to trust your partner enough to make major decisions when one of you can’t be there to make them together.

Dealing with Conflicts and Issues

When anger comes into play, for instance, at least one of us usually has the headspace to take a step back and say, “What are we really angry at here?” What many fail to realize is they take their anger from a situation out on the first person that comes along. Yes, there will be days when you unknowingly have a bullseye painted on your back and you better look out! Seriously. Take heart when someone pulls out the claws and find out the real reason for the frustration. Explore different ways to deal with your issues. There are usually programs through mentoring, coaching or business groups geared towards teaching people how to work with each other through different techniques or spiritual practices. Remember, everyone deals with issues in the workplace differently. Take a break and go for a walk or do something relaxing like Tai Chi.

Communication

Communication is of course key to any relationship, particularly a marriage, so if you’re going to be working with each other as well, learn how to communicate. I can’t emphasize it enough. Prepare for a bumpy ride, at least in the beginning. Brad and I were both set on working for ourselves and with each other, but it took a while, years in fact. It can be tough spending day in and day out with the same person, no matter who it is and throwing children into the equation made it all that tougher. It also made us more determined to do it than ever. We discovered how to be clear about what we wanted and not to hold back when something was bothering either of us. When you communicate openly you remove a wall that can stand between you and your success. When you have other lives you are also working towards, it can make a huge difference in your thought process.

Get Outside Perspectives

Network with others to get outside perspectives. Start a mastermind group. It will allow you to brainstorm and share ideas. It will also teach you how to look outside of the box for solutions.

Expectations

It’s important to let each other know your expectations in the business. You can call it a goal or an expectation. Tell each other what you ultimately want to accomplish and figure out how you want to get there. The journey is just as important. When you know ahead of time what the expectations are, you can work with each other on each other’s terms. Relax, sit back and enjoy the ride.