Some of my friends - mainly those with children - have always envied my ex and I both working from home. I, however, have long thought that the day my son's dad announced he was to become self-employed was the day the death knell tolled for our relationship.
At first it was lovely – we had a new baby, the house was being renovated. It was undeniably nice to always have someone at home on tap to share things with – and I don't just mean the chores. I honestly look back with fondness and pleasure at the days when our son was tiny and his dad was always there to see the first smiles, the first steps, to spoon in the first pieces of carrot, and to then be on the receiving end of their prompt regurgitation...
But I remember some people - the friends who were more independent, single, or married but without kids, asking me how could I bear him being around all the time, to never have a moment to myself, to always have someone else in the house. Eventually, I understood what they meant. I did end up feeling cloistered, claustrophobic. And the constant togetherness did begin to drive a huge wedge between us.
Obviously, since we have separated but have continued to live together, this has hugely magnified. But things are about to change – my ex is to start working outside of the home for the first time in almost a decade. He will also be travelling and away for extended periods.
Already there have been heated 'discussions' about the new timetabling arrangements for childcare and the school run. But despite that, I kind of think it could perhaps herald some real changes and make things easier for everyone. I hope so.
What do you think?
Do you and your partner work from home? Does it cause more problems than it solves?
Or would you love to have your 'other half' around 24/7?