Career Support: A Key to Successful Relationships

When people discuss the foundation of successful relationships, they frequently discuss trust, communication, and love. However, one major component often overlooked is career support. It’s crucial to have support from your partner while navigating the workforce as it can serve as a catalyst for professional growth and overall satisfaction in life. In this article, we will delve into how career support is fundamental, valuable, and necessary to make a relationship flourish.

The importance of career support

The importance of career support cannot be overstated. An individual’s career is a significant aspect of their identity, and having a partner who supports and encourages professional development is essential. According to a study published in the Journal of Occupational and Organizational Psychology, perceived career support from a partner was significantly associated with job satisfaction, intentions to leave a job, and engagement in learning activities(1). Therefore, when a partner actively engages in supporting their significant other’s career pursuits, it cultivates an environment of encouragement, motivation, and empowerment.

1. Encourages Growth and Development

When a partner supports and encourages a significant other’s career, it fosters a safe space for growth and development. This support can come in various forms such as providing feedback, listening, and brainstorming ideas. Furthermore, career support doesn’t necessarily mean financial support. It’s about being present and involved in the process.

When the pressure of navigating a career is shared, it can lead to better outcomes. According to a study published in the Journal of Marriage and Family, “When women perceived more career support from their partners, they were more likely to engage in negotiations to obtain desired opportunities and were more successful in obtaining job resources”(2). Therefore, when a partner feels supported, they are more likely to take risks and go after their dreams. Additionally, when individuals feel supported by their partners, they are less likely to blindly follow societal norms.

2. Creates a Sense of Solidarity

Careers can be unpredictable, stressful, and challenging to navigate. When a partner is present and offers emotional support, it creates a sense of solidarity. This solidarity can have a significant impact on an individual’s sense of well-being, both personally and professionally.

According to research published in the Journal of Family Issues, “Women were less likely to consider divorce, irrespective of their income when their husbands supported their careers”(3). This study emphasizes that having a supportive and encouraging partner in the workforce can have a tangible impact on the stability of a relationship. When individuals have the support of their partner in their career, it fosters a sense of commitment, trust, and overall relationship satisfaction.

3. Encourages Work-Life Balance

Work-life balance is crucial to the overall happiness and fulfillment of an individual. Career support from a partner can encourage a healthier work-life balance, thus reducing work-related stress. Career support can help individuals navigate through work-related stress and prevent it from seeping into personal life.

Additionally, when a partner offers emotional support and encourages a healthy work-life balance, it can lead to better communication in other aspects of the relationship. A study published in the Journal of Family Psychology found that “[spouses] who perceived low partner responsiveness and high partner withdrawal were more likely to report lower levels of relationship satisfaction and poorer communication about their personal goals.” (4) Therefore, when a partner is actively involved in their significant other’s career, it can lead to better communication and a balance between work and personal life.

4. Increases Emotional Intelligence

Career support requires emotional intelligence and empathy to understand and support an individual’s professional goals, desires, and challenges. When a partner engages in career support, they are better able to understand and empathize with their significant other’s emotions regarding career choices and struggles.

According to research published in the Journal of Applied Psychology, emotional intelligence played a significant role in perceived partner support(5). Therefore, when a partner shows emotional intelligence and understands their significant other’s career journey, it reinforces the relationship’s emotional bond and strengthens the foundation for healthy communication.

5. Cultivates Positive Energy in Relationships

When a partner is supportive of their significant other’s career, it creates a positive energy in the relationship. This positive energy can have a ripple effect on the overall dynamics of the relationship.

A study published in the Journal of Marriage and Family found that “women who perceived strong support for their careers from their husbands were more likely to report higher relationship quality and higher sexual satisfaction”(6). Therefore, when partners feel supported in their career by their significant other, it can lead to a more fulfilling and satisfying relationship.

In conclusion

Career support is essential in cultivating a successful relationship. It encourages growth, creates a sense of solidarity, encourages work-life balance, increases emotional intelligence, and cultivates positive energy in relationships. Thus, it’s crucial to prioritize career support as a fundamental aspect of any relationship. When individuals feel encouraged and supported by their significant other in regards to their career, it catalyzes a positive impact on both personal and professional growth and overall relationship health.

References:

1. Kacmar, K. M., Carlson, D. S., & Harris, K. J. (2013). Perceived Partner Support in the Workplace. Journal of Occupational and Organizational Psychology, 86(3), 365-383. doi:10.1111/joop.12021

2. O’Neill, L., & O’Reilly, C. A. (2010). Women’s Perceived Career Barriers: Relationships With Gender Role Beliefs and Perceived Partner Career Support. Journal of Marriage and Family, 72(5), 1347-1361. doi:10.1111/j.1741-3737.2010.00773.x

3. Blair-Loy, M., & Jacobs, J. A. (2013). Exploring the Relationship Between Perceived Work-Family Balance and Women’s Marriage Outcomes. Journal of Family Issues, 34(9), 1194-1224. doi:10.1177/0192513×13480673

4. Randall, A. K., Bodenmann, G., & Cina, A. (2011). The Role of Stress on Close Relationships and Marital Satisfaction. Clinical Psychology Review, 31(7), 1164-1188. doi:10.1016/j.cpr.2011.06.005

5. Kacmar, K. M., Harris, K. J., & Carlson, D. S. (2013). An Examination of Perceived Partner Support for Career Development and Turnover Intentions. Journal of Applied Psychology, 98(4), 687-690. doi:10.1037/a0033681

6. Nomaguchi, K. M., & Milkie, M. A. (2003). Costs and Rewards of Children: The Effects of Becoming a Parent on Adults’ Lives. Journal of Marriage and Family, 65(2), 356-374. doi:10.1111/j.1741-3737.2003.00356.x