(Posted 444 days ago)

Do's and Don'ts:

Different people have different attitudes about work, career, and bread-winning responsibilities.

Don't assume that your spouse shares your views on these values. In addition, these values can change over time, possibly in ways that you might find maddening.

Understand that it's often very difficult to switch bread winning roles. Skills differ. Career opportunities differ. Values differ about the role of work and career in one's life. And the longer one has been out of the workforce, the harder it is to return.

Encourage retraining and the development of new skills.

Don't dismiss the value of homemaking. That's important, too--even if the job doesn't make money.

Say This:

I'm exhausted from working so hard. I feel like I don't have any time to unwind, spend time with you and the kids, see my friends, and recharge my batteries. I know you don't want to go back to work, but I really need some help supporting the family. I'm happy to share in the housework. But I need you to make a commitment to getting back into the working world. If you want to go to school, let's talk about how we can work that out. All I know is that I need help.