3 Ways to Improve Communication When Your Partner Works Odd Shifts

People who work odd shifts tend to have different schedules overall. They probably spend most of their days sleeping, or they’re home while you’re at work.

When you’re in a relationship, that can have a severe impact on the way you communicate with each other. Simply put, if your partner works odd shifts, it can be hard on you as a couple.

You’ve probably heard before that communication is critical to any successful relationship. So, finding time to “make it work” is essential to the strength and connection the two of you maintain together.

If you and your partner feel like two ships passing in the night, what can you do to improve communication? How can you communicate better when your partner works odd shifts?

Let’s take a look at a few practical tips.

Carve Out Time

It may not be the most “romantic” thing in the world, but when your partner works odd shifts, and you don’t see each other often, you might have to schedule a time to talk to each other.

Scheduling time every day might not be possible. However, aim for at least 2-3 times a week. And try to “pencil in” at least 15-20 minutes of uninterrupted conversation with one another. Stay committed to this schedule and give your partner your full attention.

Make the Most Of Your Time—Every Time

Everyone has days off of work. If you and your partner do find yourselves with some extra time together each week, be sure to optimize it as much as possible.

You might both be tired or busy. But, utilize the time you have together whenever you can. This approach might mean going on a date, spending time away from the kids, or doing something fun and relaxing for both of you.

When you’re able to relax and forget about your opposite schedules for a while, it’s easier to feel more comfortable and communicate more openly.

The Little Things Can Be a Big Deal

When your partner works odd shifts, you might have to get creative when it comes to how you communicate. While it’s a good idea to make time for each other, plan date nights, or even bigger gestures. Also, it’s just as essential to make the little things count.

Those “little things” will keep your lines of communication open daily. Things like little notes in your partner’s lunch or romantic text messages throughout the day can mean a lot.

These little things nurture your relationship. They are exactly what make more significant gestures and dramatic statements more meaningful. So, start small and stay small throughout your relationship. Think about how good it would feel to get a little note from your partner when you’re not expecting it. Now, do the same for them.

Stay Creative When Finding Solutions

Don’t be afraid to use your creativity when it comes to communicating with the one you love. It will show them just how invested you are in keeping the relationship active.

If you’re in a relationship and your partner works swing shift, it takes a little bit of effort to make your communication work as well as it does in other relationships. But it’s not impossible.

Plus, you can even end up having a stronger relationship than you ever thought possible. It’s not always about how frequently you communicate, rather the quality of that communication. Think outside the box, and you can make it work with a little bit of help.

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If you’re still struggling and need some more tips, feel free to contact me for more information. I’m happy to help couples in the East Bay area, so visit my page on [specialty page link] to learn more.

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