Respecting Your Spouse’s Time and Space When They Work From Home

Working from home has become a standard arrangement for many couples, bringing both opportunities and challenges. 

While it might seem ideal to have your partner just a few steps away throughout the day, it's essential to recognise that home is no longer just a sanctuary: It's also a shared workspace. 

Respecting your spouse’s time and space when they’re working from home is not only considerate; it’s vital for maintaining a healthy relationship and a productive household.

1. Work Still Means Work

Just because your partner isn’t commuting or dressed in office attire doesn’t mean they’re not busy. Virtual meetings, deadlines, and the pressure to remain productive are all very real. Interrupting with small talk, asking for help with chores, or assuming they’re "available" can derail their focus and cause unnecessary stress. Respect their schedule as you would if they were working in an office setting. 

And if you keep texting, messaging or phoning your spouse whilst they are at work, that's another cause of concern. 

2. Boundaries Prevent Resentment

Creating and respecting boundaries helps prevent friction. Whether it’s physical space (like a dedicated home office or quiet corner) or time blocks where they shouldn’t be disturbed, these boundaries make it clear when it’s okay to chat and when it’s not. Ignoring them can lead to resentment over time, especially if one partner feels their work isn’t taken seriously.

3. Support Enhances Productivity

When you give your partner the time and space to concentrate, you're actually contributing to their success. A supportive environment can improve their work performance, reduce stress, and lead to more quality time together once the workday is done. Everyone wins when both partners feel respected and valued.

4. It Sets a Standard for Shared Responsibility

In many households, the person working from home is mistakenly seen as more "available" for household tasks or childcare. Respecting work-from-home boundaries reinforces the idea that both partners have responsibilities, regardless of where their work is based. It encourages fairer distribution of tasks and acknowledges that all work—inside or outside the home—is valid and important.

5. You’d Want the Same Courtesy

Think about how you’d feel if your focus was constantly interrupted, your space invaded, or your time disregarded. Giving your spouse the same courtesy you’d expect reinforces mutual respect and strengthens your partnership in the long term.

Final Thoughts

Working from home isn’t always easy, especially when you're sharing space. But with a bit of empathy, communication, and mutual respect, it can be a rewarding experience. Recognise that your spouse’s time and space are just as important as your own, and your home will be both a happier and more productive place.

Ironically whilst I was formatting this blogpost my wife asked me to put the recycling out and to do a couple of other jobs. Which I did, as there's no point in causing an argument.