As the years have gone by, my partner’s travel demands have quietly crept into our lives, much like a stealthy intruder siphoning away the only source of sanity in our home. With him away, I often find myself surrounded by kids—who, as we all know, aren’t exactly the most reliable helpers.
When we first began adjusting to his travel schedule, I quickly realized just how much I leaned on him for support—whether it was running to the store for that last-minute ingredient, sharing the midnight wake-up calls after a child’s nightmare, or simply having an adult to converse with about the ups and downs of parenting.
Initially, when he would leave, I felt lost. The kids seemed unfazed by his absence; their needs were still being met, albeit solely by me. After just a couple of days, I found myself utterly drained and defeated, trying to juggle everything on my own. (A quick shoutout to military spouses and single parents—you are the real MVPs.)
Over the years, I’ve had my fair share of highs and lows while parenting solo during his work trips. Here are some strategies that might help if your partner also travels frequently:
- Manage Your Envy of Their “Free Time.”
Yes, they’re working, but it’s hard not to feel a twinge of jealousy. While he’s enjoying upscale dinners and sleeping in plush hotel beds, I’m knee-deep in macaroni and cheese, wishing for just a moment’s peace. - What’s for Dinner?
Honestly, during his trips, gourmet meals are often replaced by popcorn or breakfast for dinner. Our dining table becomes a cozy movie-watching spot instead of a formal dinner setting—think of it as first-semester college life! - Avoid Late-Night Indulgences.
The real fun begins when the kids are finally asleep. I tend to stay up too late, binge-watching shows and indulging in that extra glass of wine, which only leads to more exhaustion the next day. - Don’t Get Spooked.
Invest in some home security, a large dog, or take self-defense classes. The silence of the house at night can be unsettling, especially when you’re the only adult around. - You’re Not Superhuman.
Acknowledge that you can’t do it all. As long as the kids are fed and clothed, you’re doing just fine. - Kids Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff.
They really don’t care if they haven’t bathed in days or if the house is a mess. Kids are surprisingly resilient and adaptable. - Stick to a Routine.
Try to maintain regular schedules during your partner’s absence. Keeping things consistent helps keep the peace and your sanity intact. - Coffee is Your Best Friend.
Especially after a night filled with too much screen time and too little sleep. - Use Technology to Stay Connected.
FaceTime has been a lifesaver, allowing me to feel less isolated when my partner is away. We often chat with friends and family, giving me that adult interaction I crave. - Remember, They Live Here Too.
When your partner returns, don’t forget they are part of the household. Adjusting back can be tricky, as it’s easy to cling to the routine you’ve established solo.
So, if your spouse frequently travels, know that you’re not alone. It can feel both liberating and isolating. Even amidst chaos—like weeks where everyone catches a stomach flu—there’s a possibility for growth and resilience. It may not be easy, but we can navigate through it and learn a thing or two about ourselves along the way.
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Summary:
Coping with a partner’s frequent work travel can be challenging but manageable. By acknowledging feelings of jealousy, maintaining routines, and utilizing technology for connection, you can survive the chaos. Remember not to strive for perfection—just focus on keeping everyone fed and happy.