5 Tips on How to Live with a Man Who Doesn't Know What to Do with His Life

He quit another job, and you're left with the burden of paying the bills. It hurts his pride. It makes you impatient. It breaks his spirit, but you warned him it would. How is a woman supposed to live with a man who cannot seem to find his niche in life?

After five years of marriage, Ron is laid-off right before Christmas. He draws unemployment but it is barely enough to make ends meet. Your part-time job helps, but it's not the answer to the problem. You've gone back to school. After 6 weeks, Ron seems to find a great job working for an insurance office. Nine months later, he quits. This time he's not allowed unemployment benefits. He's down in the dumps; you're frazzled, and you're wondering if your marriage will survive as the bills pile up.

Although Ron is a nice guy, and has always been a sensitive husband, you're having second thoughts about your relationship. He's always provided for you in the past, but as he has gotten older, things seem to be getting more difficult. He takes odd-end jobs that lead to nowhere. The problem is he doesn't have a career, nor a trade.

"In sickness and in health. For better or for worse." You can hear your wedding vows echoing in your mind as guilt bursts to the surface. For you, divorce is not an option. So, what do you do in your current situation? How do you encourage him when you yourself need encouragement?

The woman is so often expected to provide the nurturing and comfort, but the truth is, sometimes we have none left to give. If this is your case, try applying these principles to your situation.

1. Don't try to deny how you really feel.

Acknowledge your anger, resentment, and other strong emotions toward your husband's situation, God, and yourself.

Because you may not have wanted to discourage your husband anymore than he already was, you may have kept your strong emotions hidden under the surface. However, repressed emotions tend to blow up at a time you least expect it. Therefore, deal honestly with your emotions.

2. When your husband shows an interest in something, encourage him to pursue it.