Thriving in a Relationship When One Partner Travels for Work

Maintaining a strong relationship can be challenging when work requires one partner to spend time away from home. For us, Leslie and Josh, this is a part of our current reality. Leslie temporarily travels to Oklahoma City Monday through Friday for work, while Josh works the same schedule in Dallas. While the routine demands extra effort, it’s also taught us invaluable lessons about connection, trust, and making the most of our time together.

1. Prioritize Communication

When work keeps you apart during the week, communication becomes the glue that holds your relationship together.

Set Daily Check-ins: Even a quick text, call, or video chat keeps us connected and present in each other’s lives.
Stay Open: We share our schedules and how we’re feeling—being transparent helps maintain trust and partnership.

2. Maximize Quality Time

With limited time together during the week, our weekends have become sacred.

Plan Ahead: We map out how we want to spend our weekends, blending relaxation with activities that bring us closer.
Be Fully Present: Disconnecting from work and technology when we’re together ensures we make the most of our time.

3. Build a Shared Vision

Our relationship thrives because we’re not just partners—we’re teammates working toward shared goals.

Dream Big Together: We regularly talk about our long-term goals, whether related to our coaching business, personal growth, or future plans.
Stay Supportive: Celebrating each other’s wins—big or small—keeps us connected and motivated, even during time apart.

4. Embrace Trust and Independence

Being apart has taught us the importance of trust while also allowing us to focus on our individual goals.

Trust Completely: Honest communication helps reinforce our confidence in each other.
Grow Individually: The time apart is an opportunity to focus on personal passions, knowing it strengthens us as individuals and as a couple.

5. Use Technology to Stay Close

Technology has been a lifesaver in helping us bridge the gap during the week.

Virtual Connection: Whether it’s a quick video call or sharing funny memes, little moments go a long way.
Shared Tools: Apps for calendars or shared notes help us stay organized and in sync.

6. See the Temporary Nature of the Situation as an Opportunity

Our situation isn’t forever, and we choose to see it as a chance to grow stronger together.

Focus on the Positive: The distance has taught us to communicate better, cherish time together, and prioritize our relationship.
Celebrate the Small Things: From surviving a hectic workweek to planning our next weekend together, we find joy in the journey.

Thriving Through Temporary Distance

This temporary arrangement has been a reminder that love is about effort, adaptability, and shared purpose. While it’s not always easy, the strategies we’ve developed have strengthened our relationship in ways we didn’t expect.

If you’re navigating a similar situation, know that you can not only maintain but also thrive in your relationship. With trust, communication, and a focus on the bigger picture, even time apart can bring you closer.

For more relationship advice and resources, explore what we offer at Second Chance Coaching. We’re here to help you build the relationship you deserve, no matter the circumstances.