Navigating Life And Career Changes Together — An Honest Conversation with My Wife

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Over the past few years, my wife Barb and I have experienced a lot of change. In this episode of the Family Money Adventure Show, we sit down to talk about those changes, what they’ve meant for us, how we’ve adapted, and what we’ve learned along the way. It’s not always easy to navigate life and career transitions, especially when they happen at the same time. But being open, flexible, and willing to support each other makes a big difference.

We talk about the unexpected turns our careers have taken, how we’ve handled growing responsibilities as parents, and how we’re still figuring things out together.

Starting a New Chapter in Career and Life

Barb’s recent career change from being a classroom teacher to a reading specialist was a big shift for our family. It brought more freedom, more flexibility, and more time at home. But it also came with some challenges. We both had to adjust to new routines and expectations.

When I left my day job to pursue freelance writing and content creation full-time, it felt like a leap. Barb’s support during that transition was crucial. We didn’t know how it would turn out, but we believed in the possibilities and in each other.

We’re not experts at handling change, but we’re good at having honest conversations and showing up for each other. That has carried us through so many seasons of uncertainty and growth.

How We Balance Work, Family, and Everything in Between

With four kids, including two in college and one still in high school, there’s always a lot going on. Our schedules can get complicated. Barb and I try to balance our professional responsibilities with our family’s needs.

We’ve learned to give each other space. Sometimes, Barb needs quiet time after a busy day at school. Sometimes, I need time to focus on a project or a podcast episode. We communicate our needs and try to find a middle ground.

We also lean on systems that help us stay organized. Google Calendar is our best friend. So are quick check-ins at the end of the day or on Sunday nights to make sure we’re on the same page.

What We’ve Learned From Making Big Life Changes

One of the biggest lessons we’ve learned is that your career doesn’t have to look one specific way. It’s okay to try something new. It’s okay to shift gears.

Barb had always dreamed of becoming a reading specialist. It was a goal she had held onto for years. When the opportunity arose, she seized it. And it changed her professional life.

For me, leaving behind the structure of a nine-to-five job was scary. But it also gave me the chance to build something that better fits our life. I get to be more present for our kids, to work from home, and to create content that reflects our values.

We’ve also realized that sometimes the timing isn’t perfect. And that’s okay. You don’t have to wait for everything to be lined up. If something feels right, take the next step.

The Importance of Showing Up for Each Other

Barb and I don’t always get it right. But we do our best to support one another. That means listening, encouraging, and making space for each other’s dreams. It means asking, what do you need right now, and actually listening to the answer.

When one of us is struggling, the other one steps in. When one of us is excited about something new, we celebrate that together.

Marriage and partnership aren’t about having it all figured out. They’re about walking through life together, one decision, one pivot, one win or loss at a time.

Parenting Through Change

Raising four kids while navigating career transitions hasn’t been easy. Our kids have different needs at different stages, and that constantly requires us to adjust. We try to model flexibility, persistence, and open communication for them.

We’ve had to make hard decisions about time, money, and priorities. But we’ve also been able to show our kids that it’s possible to chase your goals and build a life that works for your family.

Some of the best conversations we’ve had with our kids have come during those in-between moments. A car ride, a late-night chat, a quick trip to the store. We try to be available and let them know we’re always here, no matter what.

What We Hope Other Families Take Away

If you’re going through a big life change or thinking about one, you’re not alone. It’s okay to feel uncertain. It’s okay to change directions. And it’s okay to ask for help.

We hope our story shows that there is no one right way to do life. You get to write your own rules. You get to decide what matters most to you and your family.

If something in your life feels off, heavy, or like it’s time for something new, pay attention to that feeling. Start with a conversation. Make a small change. See what happens.

And remember, you don’t have to do it alone.

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