EP11: How To Talk To Your Partner About Regenerative Career Change
You're ready to leap from the corporate world into something more meaningful. Your heart is racing with excitement, but there's a knot in your stomach. How on earth are you going to explain this to your partner?
I've been there, and I've guided countless others through this too. Here’s how to have those critical conversations about your regenerative career with the people you love most.
Listen on
The Heart of the Matter
Firstly, this isn't just about a job change. It's about pursuing a calling that resonates with your very being. As one of my clients beautifully put it:
"I want to actually make a difference in the world. I want to do things that really matter for my community. I'd like to tackle things that seem important to me and that I'm worried about for my family. I can't tell my daughter mummy didn't try to do anything."
This passion and commitment is what drives people towards regenerative work. But it can be challenging to convey to those who aren't immersed in the same thinking.
The Love-First Approach
When it comes to discussing your regenerative career vision with your partner, lead with love, not logic. Here's why:
Root the conversation in connection: Your partner loves you. They want to see you thrive. By framing this conversation in terms of your passion, you're inviting them to connect with your journey on an emotional level.
Be honest about uncertainty: vulnerability can be a powerful tool. Share your excitement and your nervousness. This creates space for your partner to support you.
Focus on the vision, not the details (yet): Paint a picture of the impact you want to make. Share why this matters so deeply to you. The practicalities are important, but they can come later. First, invite your partner to dream with you.
Practical Steps for Your Conversation
When you're ready to have this talk with your partner, here is some guidance about how to approach it:
Set the scene: Choose a time when you're both relaxed and open to a deep conversation.
Acknowledge their perspective: Recognise that this change affects them too. Invite their thoughts and feelings into the conversation.
Start with your why: Share what's calling you to this work. Use phrases like, "I feel so strongly about this" or "Every fibre of my being is telling me I need to take this direction."
Be open about support: Share what resources or guidance you plan to lean on during this transition. It could be communities, mentors, or programs.
Invite partnership: Ask them to be part of this journey with you. How can you navigate this together?
When the Conversation Gets Tough
It's natural to be met with some resistance or skepticism. If the conversation gets tough remember to listen actively to your partner's fears and concerns. Find common ground by connecting your vision to your shared values. And propose taking small steps together towards your future life.
The Power of Shared Dreams
Ultimately, these conversations have the potential to deepen your relationship. By sharing your passion and inviting your partner into your vision, you're creating opportunity for growth – both individually and as a couple. This is powerful. Aligning your work with your values, will ripple out to every aspect of your life.
So take a deep breath, open your heart, and start having these conversations.
