Ever-increasing client expectations, the need to prove yourself and pressing deadlines have all become the new reality of corporate life. The relentless pace can in no time start taking a toll on your partner.
Soon this stress can start spilling into your home life as well resulting in arguments and eventually leading to dissatisfaction with your partner. However, instead of letting a bad situation become worse you can take control of the situation by becoming a pillar of support for your partner.
If you are working as well, then it will be even easier for you to help your significant other. According to the assistant professor of organizational behavior, Jennifer Petriglieri of INSEAD, “Two careers can mean twice the stress, but it can also mean twice the empathy and understanding”.
Read on to know how you can be the constructive outlet for your companion during a stressful work phase:
1. Look for the signs: Stress can creep up unnoticed. You may not even know that your partner is going through a challenging phase at work and is badly affected by it. Dr. Dolly Habbal, a psychologist at the Advanced Cure Medical Centre says, “nearly 80% of the adults in UAE are stressed.” However, your partner can exhibit some changes in behaviour that could indicate that something is wrong. If your partner is unusually angry, restless, withdrawn or irritable, it could be symptomatic of underlying stress.
2. Talk compassionately: If you notice the above signs, then compassionately approach your partner. Look for the right moment and don’t rush into a conversation. Even if it means a delay till the evening, the next morning or the weekend, it is fine. Maintain your calm and talk to your partner.
3. Listen: Listening is a skill, which only a few possess. During your initial conversations, be the vent and merely hear him or her out. You don’t know for how long your partner has been concealing the concerns. As your mate opens up, let him or her speak their heart out. Once you have a complete insight into the situation, you will also be in a better position to suggest and guide.
4. Be a cautious coach: After comprehending the cause of stress, instead of directly drawing a conclusion or giving assertive suggestions, adopt a cautious approach. Try to probe gently about what’s bothering him/her.
5. Stress-relievers are a must: Help your partner take up a sport or hobby that can do wonders for his or her mood. If there is something you can take up together, even better.
However, if despite your best efforts, the stress persists, then it may be time for your partner to change his/her career. The Gulf’s economy is highly advanced and offers immense opportunities across domains and sectors. So, if it suits your partner, he or she can look for new career prospects.
