Kiplinger

Winning the Breadwinner-vs.-Homemaker Battle

Earlier this summer, I wrote about "The Hidden Struggle for Men Who Marry into Money" -- which led me to think deeper about the intricacies that go into marriages where one partner earns more than the other. There are certain relationship dynamics that come with inherited wealth, but I believe that being a couple who have made "something out of nothing" comes with an entirely different set of relationship challenges.

As the definition of "breadwinner" shifts, we have also seen a massive change in the definition of "homemaker." More and more frequently, there has been an increase in wives making most of the living income, while the husband adopts the homemaker role, taking on the responsibility of raising children. However, it is important with children under the age of 18 have mothers who are either the sole or primary source of income for the family. While gender norms are changing, women still typically carry the brunt of the unpaid aspects of family life, including caring for children and preforming household labor. I have the deepest respect for women who spend their days working and their nights caring, and the men who help to support them in these efforts.

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