Layoffs are one of the biggest challenges for a couple to handle. When your partner suffers this loss, it’s important for you to stay strong for both of you. How you react to the financial and emotional stresses that accompany your partner’s layoff can make a big difference to the future of your relationship.
Your relationship can survive a layoff by using these strategies:
1. Discuss the financial state of your household.
It’s tempting to avoid the topic, but it’s crucial to have a serious discussion about money. A discussion about the family’s current finances will help you see the reality of the situation.
Do you have savings? Do you need to make adjustments to the budget to survive? What can you cut to make changes? These are questions that need to be answered during the discussion.
During the conversation, you can also make plans for a new job search and how you will handle future bills.
2. Use experts.
If you’re struggling to figure out a budget or unsure of what expenses you can cut, ask the experts. Financial professionals can help you make a budget that fits your lifestyle and work with you on eliminating unnecessary spending. They can also help you figure out the most advantageous ways to use savings.
3. Focus on the family.
A layoff can give your partner the chance to spend more time with the family. Use this time to your family’s advantage. Work on building a stronger bond with your partner and children.
4. Let your children know the reality of the situation.
What you tell them will depend on the age of the children.
You don’t need to involve toddlers and small children in the family’s financial discussions. However, older children will notice something is wrong and demand answers.
Older children will be more scared if you try to keep the layoff a secret. In addition, they’ll notice your partner is home and ask questions about it.
Children need to understand that the layoff will bring changes in spending and other financial matters. Help them prepare for the adjustments. It’s crucial to let them voice their fears and concerns about the layoff.
5. Take care of each other.
Stress can rise to astronomical levels during a layoff, so it’s important to continue to take care of each other.
The job hunt is a top priority, but you can still find time to relax and re-energize. It’s not healthy to focus only on the job hunt. Find another activity to create balance in your life.
Activities that you can do together, like walking in a park or watching a movie, can help you bond. They will serve as reminders of your love.
A partner’s layoff can have a dramatic impact on your life. It can force you to make difficult decisions and make multiple changes to stay financially stable. However, you can overcome the stress with love and a positive outlook for your future together.
