‘landing time’

Rob is a counsellor who works with many FIFO families. He talks in this video about the need for what he calls ‘landing time’ when a couple first come together again after time apart.

 

The FIFO worker often arrives home exhausted physically and mentally and their partner is often tired from being a solo parent, juggling children, the home, activities and a job of their own.

 

Home can seem ‘alien’ to the partner who has been away, as there may have been changes and the other partner maybe keen to update them and download.

 

There are often different expectations and stresses on both sides, for each have been ‘solo’ for a while and are now together as a couple. The tension and conflict can easily build up if each person does not understand and make adjustments for this.

 

It is important, according to Rob, to ensure there is some ‘landing time’ where each person has some space and gentle time without any pressure from the other. And then you can get down to the business of some good talking and sharing!

 

Do you think ‘landing time ‘ is important and what do you find works well when making the transition to being together again?