Supporting a Spouse or Partner Who Has Relocated for Your Career

At some point in your career, you may be faced with a choice of whether or not to relocate to a new city, state or even across the country for your work. In the corporate world, where takeovers and reorganizations are a fact of life, this is often a reality. Even if you never find yourself forced to move for your current job, you may choose relocation as a way to follow a new career path or move up in your company.

Experts say that relocating for your career can be one of the most stressful things you'll ever face. It may mean leaving a hometown full of family and friends, or a city that you love. On top of adjusting to a new job and a different set of workplace characters, you have to create a new home for yourself and get to know a new town. There's no doubt about it - relocation is a challenge.

But if you have a spouse or partner who agrees to relocate with you, then there's someone else who is struggling with the transition and change as much or more than you are. For him or her, the stresses, sadness and frustration may be even greater than your own. You, after all, are moving to accept a new opportunity. For your partner, the future may seem very uncertain.

The period following your relocation may put a lot of stress on your relationship. As you adjust to the demands of your new job, your partner may feel alone and left behind in a new city. It is easy to become resentful during this chaotic and confusing time.

If you allow it, built-up resentment and lack of communication can make an already stressful time even harder. By being aware of the many emotions your partner may be experiencing and expressing your support, you can help your relationship to not only survive but thrive during this transition.

Things to Consider Before and During Your Move

Your Partner's Career

Relocations are often most difficult for couples where both individuals are working professionals. After all, in order for one person to accept a new opportunity far away, the other person may have to give up her job to come along for the ride.