Dealing with a man down on his luck is a defining moment for your relationship. The economy is still a mess and everyone knows someone out of work — chances are your man is one of them. So how do you move forward in a relationship with the man you love who is not thriving on the job market?
1. Be patient
Let’s admit it ladies, patience ranks as high on our skill set as fixing parallel parking. Between the job rejections and late night talks about new business ventures you will have to be extra patient. This hellish job market isn’t the easiest to break into once you’ve lost your job. Keep your expectations realistic and your ears open.
Yes, I said it! Make love, cuddle, do whatever you need to to keep the intimacy alive. Financial stress is unbelievably devastating to a once healthy relationship. Don’t let finances ruin your natural chemistry. Besides, sex is one of the most effective stress releases for a man and withholding it may crush him and add unnecessary strain to an already shaky partnership.
3. Get out of the house
Before the tension turns into an argument, step out for some fresh air —together. Whether it’s a walk, or a cheap date, something is better than nothing. Keep the expensive dinner’s on ice until his affairs are in order. Which leads me to my next point…
4. Nurture his ego
We all know how fragile the male ego is. Let him feel like “the man” every chance you get. Whether it’s “Mr. Fix It” projects you would normally call the repair man for or a hardy chuckle at his corny jokes. Your relationship needs the balance and his ego needs that pick-me-up. Trust me.
5. Remember why you love him
I know love doesn’t pay the rent, but ladies love will get you through! You will experience some trying days (or weeks) throughout his unemployment. Arguments about finances may become so heated you will wonder why you’re even together. But, hold onto your memories about why you fell in love with him. If those reasons hold up then keep fighting, if not then do both of yourselves a favor and walk away.