I’m Successful But My Partner Has Zero Ambition

Dear Martha:

I’m a successful professional but my partner is always in and out of different jobs. His lack of ambition is extremely frustrating to me. What should I do?

–Reluctant Breadwinner

Dear Reluctant Breadwinner:

You really need to reflect on your relationship. Why did you choose to be with someone under such circumstances? Are there other areas of your life he complements?

And if he were to remain the same way, would you continue the relationship?  Or are you really waiting for him to commit to something and solve the problem?

If you’re waiting for him to make a change on his part, it may never happen. If, on the other hand, you think that you could handle the responsibility of taking care of both of you, go ahead, you must truly be in love.

Above all, consider whether or not you could continue this way for the rest of your life. The only person that you can change is yourself.