Working as a healthcare traveler has a lot of perks, but there can also be a potential downside. Leaving your family behind while you are on assignment may cause mixed feelings. While it’s exciting to live and work in a new city, it could put a strain on your romantic relationship.
If you’re married or have a significant other, staying connected and keeping your relationship strong is important. Don’t let a healthcare travel assignment take a negative toll on your home life. Consider some of the following tips.
Make sure your partner has support back home. Before you hit the road, make sure your partner will not be overwhelmed with the responsibilities of maintaining the home and family life. Enlist the help of friends and family or hire someone to lighten your partner’s workload. For example, if you always did the yard work, consider hiring a gardener to help while you’re gone.
Be honest with your partner. Don’t stop being open and honest with your spouse or partner just because you are on the road. If concerns come up, be sure to keep the lines of communication open. You don’t want to let issues buildup while you are away. Relationships require work, and that does not stop while you are on a healthcare travel assignment.
Don’t forget the romance. There are several ways to keep the romance alive even while you are out of town. Before you leave, consider leaving little notes around the house. Call or text just to say you miss your loved one.
Continue to make each other a priority. Out of sight should not mean out of mind. In any relationship, it’s essential to make each other a priority. It may be a little more challenging when you’re on a travel assignment, but it’s still possible. Sending small gifts, remembering special days and letting your partner know you are thinking of him or her is important.
Meet up during your assignment. If possible, try to go back home or have your partner visit you while on assignment. Plan a weekend getaway or just hang around your new city together.
Check in daily. It may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s important to talk to your partner frequently. Regardless of how busy you may be, find time to talk at least once a day. If possible, agree to a communication schedule before you leave so there are no hurt feelings. Decide if you will talk every evening before bed or start your day with a good morning call. It might make you feel more connected to do a video chat, such as Facetime or Skype. Determine what works best for you and your partner and follow through.
Spend extra time together when you are home. When you are in between healthcare assignments, consider spending extra time together. Reconnecting in person after being away on a healthcare travel assignment can be like a second honeymoon.
What did you do to keep your relationship strong while on the road? Share with us in the comments section below.