Chatting with a new friend tonight, it made me really think about how important it is to talk to your spouse about expectations at various points throughout your relationship — especially when any kind of sea change is about to happen. Whether it’s before a baby is born, when one of you stops/starts working again, or when you have to take care of a sick parent, it’s so important to lay out the expectations BEFORE (if possible) the new phase begins. Literally sit down (with a glass of wine or 4) and ask these the questions that are really important, like…
Who will change the diapers at night? Who will stay home with the kids while the other parent works? Who is responsible for making the doctor appointments? How will you honor the other person so they have their ‘alone’ time? How do you expect your relationship to WORK through any of this? How will you make time to nurture each other and yourselves?
It’s such a great reminder for all of us, no matter where we are with things.
Would love your thoughts!
