You need to plan a life that includes your personal goals, relationship goals, family goals and career or business goals. And be careful that you don't get locked into getting all your rewards from work. You may need to develop systems for maintaining a healthy balance in your life. Some couples don't talk about work at home, reserving relationship issues and family talk for after work hours - preferably at home. This ensures that the important issues get discussed.
Some couples make a point of developing individual private lives that include other people.
One partner in the book is working toward a college degree at night. The other skis regularly with friends and is president of a local charity board. But understanding these dynamics and learning how to balance the competing demands of love and work will only do so much. As Ms. Marshack says, the real power lies within each individual to create a healthy integration of intimacy, family life and meaningful work. You Want, and Resumes That Will Get You the Job You Want.