Couples who work together: Myths and realities

3 min read

This article is taken from a webinar [in French only] hosted by psychologist and speaker Pierrette Desrosiers, which explores the opportunities and challenges that couples who work together may face. It is part of a series of modules focused on managing the human aspects of the family farm business.

In agriculture, it is common to see couples working together. This unique partnership presents many challenges, explains psychologist and speaker Pierrette Desrosiers. From the exchange of ideas to reality, there are a variety of factors to consider in balancing the development of your business with your personal and marital fulfillment.

You can adopt different structures for working together: a financial and decision-making partnership in which you are both actively involved, or a model in which one of you makes a specific contribution to operations or decisions. Whichever option you choose, it's important to recognize the connections between the individuals, the couple, the family and the business.

"Understanding this complex dynamic from the outset will give you a better grasp of the issues you'll face," says Desrosiers.

Debunking the myths

There are a number of myths surrounding spouses who work together. Some believe that you must be totally compatible and always agree. Yet differences of opinion can enrich and strengthen your relationship, as long as you maintain an open dialogue and seek compromise. Others believe that total independence and strict division of responsibilities wards off conflict. In reality, you need to be able to rely on one another.

There can be healthy competition, without damaging the relationship or the business. For this to work, you must clearly define roles and responsibilities that give everyone space, autonomy and recognition within the operation.

The idea of an ideal work-life balance is another common misconception. In fact, running a business as a couple often interferes with personal life. "Learn to manage your priorities and make choices," advises Desrosiers.

Conditions for success

Conflicts may arise over issues such as money, work, outside relationships, household chores, the children's education, intimacy, time together and independence. Identify these potential sources of disagreement and develop win-win solutions.

Make sure you communicate openly and transparently. Check your understanding of the other person's point of view and cultivate empathy. "Try to understand the other person before you try to be understood," says Desrosiers. That way, you can avoid misunderstandings and appreciate your individual differences.

According to Desrosiers, to be successful as a couple in business, you must:

know yourself well
manage your emotions appropriately
work as a team
develop your leadership skills
improve your management skills

"Identify your 'why', define your individual, couple, family and business values, and develop an action plan and a budget," she says.

Each couple has its own recipe

Going into business with your spouse can be challenging, but it can also be a source of personal and professional growth.There are many models of entrepreneurial couples and more than one recipe for success. Find your own formula based on your interests, skills and expectations and make the choices that work best for you.

Going into business with your spouse can be challenging, but it can also be a source of personal and professional growth. "By using the right tools and recognizing the myths and realities, you and your spouse can add incredible strength to your business and take it to heights that would not have been possible on your own," concludes Pierrette Desrosiers.

Article by: Melanie Lagacé

Wellness Working with family Communication