Navigating marriage as an entrepreneurial mom comes with its own set of challenges. Even more so when you’re the primary provider. Conversations about money, roles, and support can feel tricky to navigate.
But, when left unsaid, it can create confusion, tension, and unnecessary strain on your relationship.
In the second part of our special series on marriage and entrepreneurship, my husband Eric and I uncover the real reason why open communication matters most in relationships. And not just any communication, but the kind that is direct, clear, and free of assumptions.
We share some of the tools and tactics that have helped us strengthen our partnership and resolve conflicts, even when the going gets tough.
If you missed part one, where we focused on strengthening your foundation, you can catch up here.
Solving the Case of Miscommunication
For many couples, money and roles are among the toughest topics to address, especially when traditional dynamics are flipped. As the breadwinner, you might feel the weight of expectations, the hesitation to ask for help, or even the fear of creating conflict.
For me, it often felt like I was tiptoeing around certain financial conversations because I didn’t want to make him feel less valued. I’d catch myself assuming how Eric might feel about something without checking in. And then I’d overthink how to bring it up, which made it harder to have an honest conversation.
But over time, we realized that avoiding these discussions only created more confusion.
We call it "Sherlock Holmes-ing".
In marriage, it’s easy to fall into the trap of trying to guess what your partner is thinking…like a modern-day Sherlock Holmes. But while detective work might make for great mystery novels, it’s a recipe for miscommunication in relationships.
Instead, we’ve found that clear, direct conversations are the key to moving forward as a team.
I remember getting to a point of feeling overwhelmed that I told Eric: "I need you to see where I’m struggling and step in without me having to ask every time."
His response?
"I didn’t realize how much you were carrying until you said that. From that moment on, I started paying closer attention to the areas where I could help without waiting for you to tell me."
This is such a reminder of how important it is to voice what you need instead of expecting your partner to read your mind.
Advantages of Mystery-Less Communication
When you approach communication with intention (instead of pulling out of hat), you’ll notice some amazing shifts in your relationship:
Conversations feel easier. You’ll stop walking on eggshells and start addressing tough topics with confidence.
You’ll feel more understood. Speaking directly fosters empathy and connection, making that bond between you and your partner even stronger.
You’ll work as a team. Instead of feeling like you’re carrying all the weight by yourself, you’ll have the tools to share the load and grow stronger together.
Having the right questions, expectations and systems for keeping communication open, you’ll be able to strengthen your marriage in all areas!
Tools to Keep Communication Healthy
Over time, we’ve developed a few simple strategies to keep our communication strong and prevent arguments before they happen:
Set Clear Roles and Expectations
As women leading a business and a family, we know all too well how it feels to just "do it all."
When we started dividing responsibilities more intentionally (like who’s handling what at home or with the kids) it took a lot of pressure off both of us. We weren’t stepping on each other’s toes or leaving things undone.
For us, this looked like me focusing on business strategy and growth while Eric managed more of the household logistics and parenting routines. Knowing our lanes gave us space to thrive individually and together.
Stay Curious, Not Combative
One of the biggest shifts we’ve made is asking questions rather than just jumping to conclusions. When something feels off, curiosity creates an open door for honest dialogue, instead of pushing us into opposing corners.
When I started asking Eric, ‘What’s your perspective on this?’ instead of assuming he wasn’t aligned with me, it opened up conversations that felt collaborative, not combative.
Staying curious helps us approach issues with empathy instead of getting defensive.
Focus on “Us” vs. “Me vs. You”
Every challenge we face as a couple is something we tackle together.
Whether it’s managing finances or parenting decisions, approaching these moments as a team helps us find solutions faster—and with less stress.
“We’re a team, and no matter what, we always go back to that.”
At the end of the day, it isn’t about winning an argument. It’s about finding the best solution for our family.
Communicate, Don’t Investigate
Whether you're balancing entrepreneurship, marriage, or motherhood (or all three), open communication is the glue that holds it all together. It’s not always easy, but the rewards are worth it: a stronger partnership, clearer roles, and a sense of unity that can weather any storm. Listen to the rest of this special podcast series on The Mom Founders Table podcast for more marriage tidbits!
If you’re ready to create more connection and clarity in your life and business, I invite you to join me and the many other high-achieving, amazing women in The Freedom Collective. Book a Consultation Call today, and let’s work together to strengthen your relationships, confidence, and purpose.
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