When it comes to relationship busters, work stress is on the top of the list along with affairs and misunderstandings. Today, work stress is part and parcel of life. With mobile phones, blackberries and the internet, your work follows you 24/7.

Work stress may stem from unfinished business at work, bad working relationships with your superiors or peers, a lack of interest in your work or frustration about your work. Unfortunately, this is a package deal that comes with every job. It is when you carry the stress home that things begin to sour. Stress results in angry outbursts, slamming doors and banging utensils. The result is an atmosphere of tension at home. Communication between family members declines and relationships take a turn for the worse. What can you do to prevent your relationship from becoming a victim of work stress?

First, take time to think about the priorities in your life. Agreed, work is important. After all, we can’t survive on love alone. But your family is important too. Your wife or husband and your kids need your presence in their lives. Remember that your employer may hand over a pink slip any time they wish but your family will be there with you always. If you let work take priority and relationships deteriorate, what will you do when you retire? So, give your family the priority it deserves.

Plan to spend some time each day with your spouse. During that time, don’t let anything or anyone remind you of your work. Let the time be exclusively for you to talk, cuddle up or go for a dinner date. You should also plan time with your kids and friends. It is a great way to unwind and once the stress eases, you will find yourself in a better mood. The end result being that you will be nice to your spouse and he or she will be happy too.

Talk with your spouse about work and the things which bother you. Your spouse is your friend and counsellor, and sharing your tension with them will help them understand and forgive anything you may say or do on account of the stress you face at work.

Spare some time for yourself. Take time to read a book or do some cooking or gardening or whatever may please you. This way, you will be able to relax. If tension radiates from every pore of your body, your spouse is sure to run for cover. On the other hand, if you are relaxed and calm, your spouse will feel glad to approach you.

If you feel that your husband or wife is dealing with too much stress at work, do something to comfort them. You can prepare a warm bath or make their favorite dish for dinner. Small, considerate gestures go a long way in establishing solidarity in a relationship.

Remember, marriage can be a cure for stress. A loving, solid relationship is the foundation of a good marriage. Don’t let your work and its woes ruin it.

Jonathan Pitts

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