Whether it is investing in your business to provide an income, or just a hobby to have some fun, there is a lot to learn about working alongside your partner. It’s not always easy (we’ll be honest) but there’s lots to love. When we make sure to keep in mind these few practices, the rewards are priceless. We hope to be of help by sharing our experience and what works for us. Here are a few things we learned:

Have Job Descriptions

We wish we were given this advice at the start. In the beginning we were sort of just winging it. We loosely tag teamed in executing ideas we had, but nothing was set in stone. As time went on and more commissions were coming in, we knew that in order to be successful we had to buckle down and set realistic expectations. It makes more sense for me to be the one behind the screen answering emails or managing the website, since I enjoy the process and multitasking comes easily to me. Luke’s strength with a hammer beats mine so he’s going to make it possible to bang out more products and speed up the production process. We all have our own unique set of skills and talents. Identify and focus on those. We’ve found this prevents arguments and makes for a smooth ride when facing the unexpected.

Plan In Advance

Set yourselves both up for success. This may sound like common sense, but remember that time management is key. You’re your own boss so create deadlines. No matter how big or small the task, this helps for you both to take accountability. To add to that, respecting one another’s time is crucial (especially if you have a baby napping) so treat each second like gold. Yes, we can spend our nights together staying up late making bottle openers, but when Luke’s on baby-duty while the sun is still out, my turning off mom-mode to hit some metal actually benefits us way more. Being proactive to achieve balance and reach your goals shows real commitment to the success of your relationship (and business).

Be Willing to Stop and Pause

Whether to help one another with a problem, or get some helpful feedback, it is important, no matter how in-the-zone you are. Listen and help when you can and never underestimate the magic of patience. It is just a valuable skill to have in life as the ability to practice mindfulness. Remember, two minds are better than one. One question to ask is “How can I help you?” Finding solutions and problem solving with someone else sparks imagination and innovation. Who could ask for anything better? Also try “What can I learn from him/her?” By asking this you are having a Growth Mindset. Being open to learning creates endless opportunities for expansion. I can’t count how many times there have been where we later found ourselves saying “Oh man, had we just done that part together…” it would’ve saved us a lot of time (and/or materials).

 Look Out for Each Other

There’s always the possibility that there is a flying spark on the loose, cord in the way, or something misplaced, so consider yourself very lucky to have an extra pair of eyes. Obviously there will be times where you’re both in deep focus, but when (or if) you can be a spotter, use this reality to both your advantage. In another sense of the notion, (as mentioned previously) check to see if one of you might be struggling. This can happen and we don’t even realize it. For example, there I will be thinking “Okay, moving the metal is suppose to be this hard, I need to build more muscle” but in reality I just had to adjust my grip on the hammer or position at the anvil. Thank goodness for Luke!

Keep a Sense of Humor

You’ve got to be able to laugh. Everything is easier when things are fun and you can enjoy the entire process. Laugh (but learn) at your mistakes. There’s a children’s book called “Beautiful Oops!” by Barney Saltzberg that we read to our daughter. It celebrates mistakes and encourages enjoying the creative journey, seeing it as a portal of discovery. It’s easy to be hard on yourself but be reminded that comedy takes pressure off. A little giggle always lifts one’s spirits. Our shop and hearts become filled with joy when we focus on the good stuff (rather than where we’re coming up short).

There you have it. The good, the bad and the ugly Smithage. We hope we’ve helped to ease some stress or even better, made you feel more confident about all the great things you’re already doing!