Re:Why I'll be a solo founder next time
by steveklabnik on Monday August 05, 2013 @01:13PM
(#6161361)
Absolutely. I only used physical proximity because it's a clear example; even relationships don't even need physical proximity at all times. I myself have spent most of the year away from my long(est)-term partner, because we explicitly agreed to pursue other goals over proximity.
For example, a couple needs to agree on:
* How to divide up responsibilities at home
* Expectations of income (who works? how much?)
* Whether or not to combine their income or keep it separate (and how will they spend it)
* Whether or not to have kids (and who will raise them)
* How to negotiate extended family commitments on both sides
I think your example of the programmer and the doctor underlines the need for more agreement than physical proximity. What if the programmer wants to quit her job and work full time on a start up idea, taking no salary for the next 3 years? The doctor will have to make adjustments in his lifestyle to accommodate that decision. If they are not headed the same direction, that would bring enormous pressure to the marriage.