I built the business for 10 years on my own before my wife joined after we got married and had our first baby. That transition taught me a lot.
The biggest lesson was this: if you are going to work with your spouse, you have to be intentional. It cannot be casual. It cannot be assumed. It has to be structured.
First, we had to clearly define roles and play to our strengths. Not what we felt like doing. Not what was convenient. What we were actually wired for. When each person stays in their lane, there is less friction and more momentum.
Second, boundaries are everything. Business conversations cannot bleed into every dinner, car ride, or bedtime routine. We had to decide when we were owners and when we were husband and wife. Without that separation, the business will consume the relationship.
Third, clarity beats emotion. We learned to be extremely clear on expectations, ownership of tasks, and decision rights. Who owns this? When is it due? What does done look like? Ambiguity creates tension. Deadlines create alignment.
And lastly, communicate directly and respectfully. No passive comments. No scorekeeping. If something is not working, address it quickly and professionally, just like you would with any other partner.
Working with your spouse can be one of the greatest advantages you have. But only if you treat it like a real partnership with structure, accountability, and mutual respect.
Hope that helps.
