Running a business with your spouse can be both a dream and a challenge. But don’t worry. With the right strategies, you can transform your business partnership into a thriving relationship. Here’s how:

1. Define Roles Clearly

This prevents stepping on each other’s toes and ensures that each person feels valued and accountable. Avoid vague divisions like “I’ll handle sales, you do the books,” especially if one person isn’t trained in finance. Instead, play to each other’s strengths and establish clear responsibilities.

2. Invest in Relationship and Business Coaching

This outside perspective can help you navigate tough decisions and keep the relationship healthy. As Jody Johnson emphasizes, putting the marriage first and the business second is crucial. This might mean scheduling regular check-ins with a coach or counselor to resolve any brewing issues before they escalate.

3. Prioritize the Marriage

While the business is important, it should never overshadow the marriage. Make a conscious effort to invest in your relationship. This could mean setting aside regular date nights, taking vacations, or simply ensuring you have time away from work to focus on each other. Remember, a strong personal relationship is the cornerstone of a successful business partnership.

4. Set Shared Goals

Discuss where you want to be in five or ten years, including financial goals, lifestyle aspirations, and exit strategies for the business. Document these goals in a way that works for you, whether it’s a formal business agreement or a vision board.

5. Manage Stress and Wellbeing

Make sure to take breaks, exercise, and maintain hobbies outside of work. Jody Johnson shares that managing well-being is paramount, as neglecting this area can negatively impact both the marriage and the business.

If you’re interested in learning more about how to navigate a business with your partner, head over to our YouTube channel HERE to dive deeper.

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Jody Johnson

Business and Executive Coach at ActionCOACH Team Sage

I begin my professional career in an unexpected way as an open heart and emergency nurse. While that may not seem connected to business and executive coaching, you’d be surprised how many of the skills developed working with the people in these environments translate into the effective coaching skills that have made her an award winning coach.
Over the last two decades Jody has helped businesses in South Florida increase their revenues and more importantly their profits, build synergistic teams and create businesses that aren’t dependent on the owner’s presence to run effectively, providing them freedom of choice. She has supported several clients in preparation for succession, exiting and in the sale of their business.
My particular areas of expertise are in family business dynamics, communication and performance. I am passionate about bringing out the best in people and refers to herself as a “People Strategist” supporting those she works with in accomplishing extraordinary success.

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