5 Tips for Successfully Working with Your Spouse
Written by Cristina Villalón
ABOUT THE AUTHOR | Cristina Villalón is the Co-Founder & CEO of Álvarez-Díaz & Villalón. She and her husband Ricardo, have been married for 20 years.
BUILDING A BUSINESS OR SHARING A CAREER PATH WITH YOUR SPOUSE CAN BE BOTH REWARDING AND CHALLENGING.
My husband, Arch. Ricardo Álvarez-Díaz, FAIA, and I have successfully built a thriving architectural and interior design firm and a solid marriage. Here are 5 proven tips when working with your spouse:
1. SET BOUNDARIES BETWEEN WORK & PERSONAL LIFE
When you work and live with your spouse, it’s easy for work conversations to creep into your personal time. Without clear boundaries, you may find yourself discussing deadlines or business issues during date nights or family events.
To avoid this, establish specific work hours and designate time for personal activities. Creating physical boundaries, such as a home office or separate workspaces, can also help mentally separate work from home life.
2. COMMUNICATE OPENLY & REGULARLY
Communication is the foundation of both healthy marriages and successful businesses. Couples working together need to maintain an open dialogue about both work and personal matters.
Schedule regular check-ins during work hours to discuss business updates, challenges, and opportunities. It’s also important to listen actively and ensure both partners feel heard and valued.
Outside of work, have conversation starters handy so you don’t end up talking about work all the time and you get to know one another as human beings.
3. DEFINE ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES
One common challenge couples face when working together is overlapping responsibilities or unclear roles. This can lead to confusion and tension.
To avoid this, clearly outline each spouse's responsibilities, strengths, and areas of expertise. Defining roles not only boosts efficiency but also minimizes potential conflicts. It allows each person to execute in their respective zone of genius.
4. SCHEDULE QUALITY TIME OUTSIDE OF WORK
When you work together, it’s easy to fall into the trap of being “all business, all the time.” However, nurturing your relationship outside of the workplace is crucial for maintaining a healthy partnership.
Make time for non-work-related activities like date nights, hobbies, or weekend getaways. Quality time helps reinforce your bond and provides a necessary break from work stress.
5. EMBRACE FLEXIBILITY & GROWTH
Just as both individuals and businesses evolve over time, so do work dynamics between spouses. It’s important to stay flexible and open to changes in roles, responsibilities, and business direction. Continuous learning, adaptation, and mutual support are essential for long-term success.
MAKING IT WORK
Working with your spouse can be an incredible journey of collaboration, growth, and shared achievement. By setting boundaries, communicating openly, and making time for both business and personal connection, couples can build a thriving business and a strong relationship.
Want to learn more about building successful partnerships and thriving in business? Check out the Inside Out podcast by AD&Voice on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube where Cristina and Ricardo share more insights, experiences, and inspiring stories.