Do partners in bed make partners in business?

This week's question from my portal “The Neagle Code: Directions for Life” comes from an individual who wishes to remain anonymous.

Question:

My husband and I bought the company he was working for 5 years ago. I truly believe in God and that we can change the circumstances of our lives. My husband does not and our business (distributor of industrial machinery) is in serious financial trouble. How can I change things around if my husband is trapped in negativity and stress? He is the one who makes the business decisions.
Thank you David!

Answer:

Thanks so much for this question!

Is this your husband's business, or do you own it jointly?

The reason I'm asking is VERY important.

If you and your husband own the business jointly, why does your husband make all the business decisions?

AND

If this is your husband's business, why are you trying to save him? Are you using his situation as a distraction from what you should be doing for yourself?

I'm going to answer this question based on the assumption that you and your husband both own the business.

I'm not questioning your belief in God that you can turn your business into success, I'm just wondering how you can take action on that faith if you've given all decision making power to your husband.

If you own your business jointly, you should discuss business decisions together.

That being said, generally when this scenario pops up with entrepreneurs and their partners it's because each person wants something completely different.

If you haven't already, I recommend sitting down as a couple and having an honest discussion about what each of you wants.

Are they the same or completely different?

Your business is failing for a reason, and if you do both not want the same things, it could be sabotaging your success.

Here's an activity I recommend for all couples who are also in business together.

Give yourselves the assignment of writing down your personal goals. Be sure to include financial, personal, short term and long term goals.

Set a “date” to discuss what you've each written. You may even want to get out of the house to share your lists.

Concentrate on really listening to what your partner is telling you. Ask questions, and be careful not to judge what they've written.

Ask your partner why they want what they want, and what their goals really mean to them.

It's my hunch that in doing this exercise, you'll not only open the lines of communication back up, but also gain some awareness around why your business is currently struggling.

“Just Believe”,®

P.S: The Neagle Code: DIRECTIONS for LIFE is a weekly no-cost program that is open to everyone! Each week, I'll select and personally respond to one question received via the above “The Neagle Code” page that I feel in my heart will help the most people. (You may choose to remain anonymous if you wish, with our full support.) It is my deep, heartfelt intention that ~ in answering your questions ~ I may provide you with the Universal Truths that in committed application, will set you free. Simply submit YOUR burning question at: www.TheNeagleCode.com to participate.

P.P.S.: May I ask you to help me spread the word about this program? Is there someone you care for who is stuck, or struggling, or lost, or unhappy? Because if so, I would very much like to help. No matter their question, no matter their predicament, no matter if they've never heard of me before … if they would like to ask for help via www.TheNeagleCode.com, my Team and I will do our very best to provide that help.

10 comments

  1. An excellent answer that hits all the relevant dynamics expressed by the inquiry. Kudos! Our primary relationships are intricately woven together by so many elements, both known and unknown within ourselves. David, your answer seemed to grasp those major threads and the subtle expressions of those in our interactions by shining a light on the source of the issue and empowering the inquirer. Great job!

    • Thanks Brooke. I hope that most who read this feel empowered to address potential issues that seem to crop up and grow in both business and their personal relationships. Appreciate the post.

  2. These really are great comments you are making. I enjoy learning your solutions, whether or not they relate personally to me or not. What a great idea to do this kind of marketing. I feel your heart space in your responses. Thanks.

    • Thanks Diane! It is important to share your gifts with those around you and this space is where I can make the most difference to the most people. I’m so glad you enjoy the weekly responses and look forward to many, many more…

  3. Great insight David, thanks!

    I have been having issues working with my husband in the past two months and after receiving your advice have made some positive changes.

    We have had the discussion and now have a pretty similar picture of what the business needs and what both of us will do to make that happen. I was plesantly surprised at how he received the whole conversation and things are really starting to move.

    We are now both working in the same direction and the energy in the house feels a whole lot better. Thanks

    • Excellent Carla! Maintaining that open and clear line of communication is crucial to the development of your business. Congratulations for taking action and having the conversation. Here’s to your success!

  4. Hi David
    Can you explain this a little bit more:
    “If this is your husband’s business, why are you trying to save him? Are you using his situation as a distraction from what you should be doing for yourself?”
    Thanks

    • Sometimes we are so invested in what others around us are doing we don’t take the time to see if it is really what we want. Also, and most importantly, we have to accept that we cannot change someone; it has to be a conscious decision on the part of that person. That is what I meant by “saving”… Thanks for the post.