EP 88: What to do when your spouse doesn't support your business vision with Dr. Lindsay Cavanagh
Being in business (especially if you're a mama!) is a challenge in itself but it can feel so much harder if you don't feel you've got the full support of your spouse.
This is why I've invited back Dr. Lindsay Cavanagh, Marriage Expert, Coach and PhD Psychologist to share her wisdom on how to navigate this tricky terrain so that you and your spouse feel seen, heard and understood.
Lindsay brings a big dose of really practical advice as she provides powerful perspective shifts as well as actionable guidance on how to lovingly tackle those tricky conversations with your spouse.
If you’ve been battling through your business worrying about if your spouse really believes in your business or if maybe you just don’t feel your spouse supports you in the way you need it, you’re going to walk away from this episode with a renewed sense of hope. With the right mindset, communication, and willingness to work together, you can turn things around.
Don’t miss this empowering conversation—listen now and take the first step towards a more supportive and harmonious journey in both your business and your marriage!
🎙️ Listen to full podcast Episode 88:
Before we dive in…
Have you heard about my shiny new Time + Money Booster calls?
If you’d love some coaching to help you work less and earn more (my speciality) and finally have some clarity on where your precious energy needs to be in your business, then get your beautiful self booked in right here (did I mention they’re completely free??)...
Ok, let’s dive in!...
In this enlightening conversation, I had the pleasure of welcoming back Dr. Lindsay Cavanagh, a marriage expert, coach, and PhD psychologist, to discuss a crucial topic that many of you have asked about: What to do when your spouse doesn't support your business vision.
This episode is packed with valuable insights and practical strategies to help you navigate this challenging situation. Whether you're just starting your entrepreneurial journey or you're looking to take your business to the next level, understanding how to communicate effectively with your partner about your business dreams is essential for your success and happiness.
The Importance of Understanding Your Spouse's Perspective
One of the key takeaways from my conversation with Dr. Lindsay was the importance of understanding where your spouse is coming from. As she wisely pointed out:
"Recognising that a lot of that resistance probably is coming from a place of simply not understanding what we’re doing versus not wanting to support you or not. And I think really having those conversations and getting to the bottom of that and what that is, and then being able to speak to those deeper down things, and asking yourself to you get really curious in"
This perspective shift can be game-changing. Instead of viewing your spouse's hesitation as a lack of support, try to approach the situation with curiosity and empathy. Remember, they may not have had the same exposure to your business journey as you have.
Effective Communication Strategies for Gaining Support
Dr. Lindsay shared some brilliant strategies for effectively communicating with your spouse about your business:
Share your journey: Involve your partner in your business journey by sharing your experiences, challenges, and wins.
Educate gradually: Don't overwhelm them with information. Instead, introduce them to your business world step by step.
Address concerns openly: Create a safe space for your spouse to express their worries and address them honestly.
Focus on shared goals: Highlight how your business success aligns with your family's overall goals and dreams.
Imagine a future where you and your spouse are on the same page about your business aspirations. Picture the sense of unity and support you'd feel as you work towards your goals together. This is entirely possible with the right approach and mindset.
The Power of Patience and Persistence
One of the most impactful moments in our conversation was when Dr. Lindsay shared:
"You don't want to ignore this and you don't like having your spouse on board is going to astronomically change your experience of being a business owner. And so learning, how do I do that? How do I navigate that? How do we talk about that? How do we have these conversations in a way that's productive and helpful like that, that needs to happen."
This quote beautifully encapsulates the importance of persistence in gaining your spouse's support. It's not always an overnight process, but the effort you put into nurturing understanding and support can yield tremendous benefits for your business and your relationship.
Key Takeaways:
Approach your spouse's concerns with curiosity and empathy
Gradually educate your partner about your business journey
Address concerns openly and honestly
Focus on shared goals and how your business success benefits the family
Be patient and persistent in nurturing understanding and support
My Approach to Supporting Clients Through Spousal Challenges
As a business coach for female entrepreneurs, I've seen firsthand how transformative it can be when clients successfully navigate these challenges with their spouses. My approach involves:
Helping clients identify and challenge limiting beliefs about their spouse's support
Developing tailored communication strategies that resonate with their unique family dynamics
Providing tools and resources to help educate spouses about the realities of entrepreneurship
Offering ongoing support and accountability as clients work through these conversations
I've witnessed countless women transform their businesses and relationships by implementing these strategies. From increased revenue to more harmonious home lives, the impact is truly remarkable.
Your Next Steps Towards a Supportive Partnership
If you're struggling with gaining your spouse's support for your business vision, know that you're not alone. Many successful female entrepreneurs have faced similar challenges and overcome them with the right guidance and strategies.
Can you envision a future where your spouse is your biggest cheerleader, celebrating your business wins and supporting you through the challenges? This future is within reach, and I'm here to help you make it a reality.
If you're ready to transform your business and your relationship, I invite you to book a discovery call with me. Together, we'll develop a personalised strategy to help you gain the support you need to thrive as a mother and an entrepreneur.
Remember, your business dreams are valid and achievable. With the right support and strategies, you can create a thriving business that aligns with your family life and brings you the fulfilment you deserve. Let's embark on this journey together and unlock your full potential as a mother in business.
Learn more about Lindsay Cavanaugh:
Website: https://marriedafterkids.com/
Podcast: https://marriedafterkids.com/podcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marriedafterkids/