A recent article in Reuters reminded me of one of the critical components to a successful and committed relationship, the component of absolute support.
The article focused on John Stankey, President and CEO of AT&T. When John was asked what he does with his limited free time, he responded he spends it with his family.
If you read the rest of the article you will realize what a crucial time it is in John’s life. He is playing a large role in making AT&T more successful than it has ever been with the addition of the iPhone into the AT&T operations. Yet, even with the obvious stress and complications of John’s career, he still maintains a level of commitment to his wife and three children, by spending his free time with them.
John demonstrates his absolute support of his executive spouse by balancing his commitment to AT&T and making her and his children his focus. He also says in the article that he wouldn’t wish his lifestyle on any of his family members, but by being there for him, his ExecuMate is showing her absolute support for him in return.
Demonstrating unwavering support for your executive spouse, and him or her demonstrating it in return, is one critical piece of the puzzle that will make your executive/spouse partnership a rewarding and successful journey.
About Me
- Colette Young
- Colette Young started ExecuMate because she felt compelled to share her life journey of challenging opportunities and joyful successes as a top executive spouse. In 2005 Colette followed her husband Larry’s career to Dallas, Texas where he now serves as President and CEO of Dr Pepper Snapple Group. As the wife of a successful, top corporate executive for 20 years, Colette young knows the value of being a supportive spouse and all the challenges and opportunities that come with such a role. Colette received a B.S. and M.S. of Music Education from MO State University. Her own success in business and life includes a career as a professional musician, pianist, vocalist, and passion for golf (single-digit handicap). She combines them in her speaking and coaching to create a memorable and engaging experience. She draws on her broad experiences as an educator, musician, business owner, golfer and importantly, a helpmate to her husband’s career to present a unique message. Her message is one of balance in life and work—sharing a journey of unending opportunities, fearless decisions and win-by-choice outcomes through attitude, adaptability and accountability.