DEAR HARRIETTE: I just got a contract for a project that should last until the end of the year. I am so excited and relieved. I have worked primarily as what is now called a “gig worker.” With the shutdown, my work basically disappeared. While this job doesn’t pay much, it’s way better than scrambling for unemployment, and I get a paycheck every two weeks. When I talked to my husband about it, all he could do is say how I should be making more money for what I am doing for these people. We are struggling, and this job is putting food on our table. Why can’t he be happy for me and for our family? What can I say to him to get him to see the big picture? I should add that he is lucky. He has the same job that he’s had for 20 years, and so far nobody is getting laid off. We are lucky for that, too. -- Need More Support
DEAR NEED MORE SUPPORT: Remind your husband how fortunate you are to have his consistent job -- and how grateful you are for the project you just got. Acknowledge that more money might be nice, but what you are bringing home is consistent and helpful to your family’s bottom line. Tell him you need him to have your back and to stop complaining. Point out all of the blessings in your life, and name this job as one of them.
(Harriette Cole is a lifestylist and founder of DREAMLEAPERS, an initiative to help people access and activate their dreams. You can send questions to askharriette@harriettecole.com or c/o Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.)