If you have a pro athlete husband, you know it can be very difficult to keep the connection while he is on the road when his sport is in season. This time is usually extremely stressful for pro sports wives. It can be difficult to multi-task all of your responsibilities of being a full time mom and dad. It can be a time of insecurity, frustration, and unrealistic expectations to be a super woman in the absence of your husband’s presence and support. The truth is absence does not always make the heart grow fonder; it can be a harsh time of separation and marital conflict.
The good news is, with preparation and patience you CAN keep the connection with your husband when he’s on the road. This time apart can make YOU stronger and actually build intimacy between you and your husband.
Things To Do While He’s Away
- This can be a rare opportunity for you to grow and develop your individual interests: make new friends, travel to new places with the kids, and spend time with other family members. This will help decrease your frustration while allowing you to receive support from others.
- During this time apart you can set aside time daily to communicate about everyday household activities and issues to keep your husband emotionally connected with the family as much as possible. Use technology such as FaceTime and Skype to keep the connection as much as possible.
- Plan visits for big games or whenever you know he will need you most.
- Surprise your husband by sending a care package to his hotel full of his favorite homemade goodies.
These are just some ideas to try. Be creative! The most important thing is that you are keeping the connection with your husband while he’s on the road.
Porsha Williams, LAMFT
Pwilliams@ GROWcounseling.com
