We're Hard Podcast Show

Planning

Balancing Ambitions: Whose Career Should You Put First?

In a relationship, it’s normal for both people to have jobs and even strong career ambitions. However, if you grow closer together and take things to the next level, it might make sense to determine one career as a priority over the other.

How To Decide Whose Career To Put First

1. Determine Practicalities

The first thing you must examine is the cold, hard data. Emotions aside, the numbers will make it easier to find a rationale for the career picked. Ideally, the job with the highest income or the potential for the highest income makes more sense to focus on, even if the other person doesn’t quit their job.

You can also look at benefits, time off, retirement options, and more. There’s a conglomerate of items associated with a typical career. 

2. Listen to Each Other

Next, talk to each other. List your cases for your careers or the other person’s if that’s your aim. Ensure you are emotionally available and ready to empathize with your loved one, as this can be a painful experience.

List everything you need to do at this time. You’ll combine the data with your thoughts on the situation and details.

3. Embrace Both Futures

Once you’ve listed everything and talked it out, make a plan to embrace both futures. That will look different for every couple. In some, both partners will keep their careers with a focus on one. In others, one person might slowly wean off of their career to stay in the home. Whatever it looks like, ensure both positions are elevated.

4. Decide Which Career is Practical

Finally, with all the information you’ve gleaned, determine which career is practical. Although it might be tricky to land on the right one, it should be clear. Once you know your next step, it will be much easier to walk forward, even if slightly painful at first. The future is bright no matter what you choose.

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