How a Strong Marriage Fuels Entrepreneurial Success

Love and the Hidden Cost of Success

Last week, I wrote about The Hidden Cost of Hitting Your Goals—the idea that while we’re chasing milestones in our business, we can slowly lose margin, perspective, and even connection with the people who matter most.

This week, I want to share something more personal.

Lisa and I just returned from a marriage retreat at WinShape, and after nearly 33 years of marriage, we walked away with more love, clarity, and connection than we’ve felt in quite a while.

That may surprise some people. After all, we mentor other couples. We’ve raised kids. We’ve weathered hard seasons. But here’s the truth:

A great marriage doesn’t just happen—it’s intentionally built.

And in the entrepreneurial world, we can easily trick ourselves into believing that our spouse will “understand” why we’re absent, distracted, or always one more client away from being fully present.

Lisa has been my partner through every chapter—corporate wins, painful losses, and the long road toward aligning our work with our calling. She brings incredible strength, deep wisdom, and a unique gift of discernment—especially through prayer. Time and time again, her spiritual insight has guided us forward with peace and clarity, even when I didn’t know the next step to take.

At WinShape, we were reminded that our marriage isn’t just a support system for the business. It’s the foundation. If the foundation cracks, everything else starts to feel unsteady—no matter how “successful” things look on paper.

So here’s my encouragement this week:
If you’re married, make space to invest in each other.
If you’re not, take note of the kind of partnership you’re building your future on.

You can’t grow a thriving business if you’re losing your most meaningful relationship along the way.

And if you’re interested in how Lisa and I help other couples navigate this territory of marriage, calling, and life together—take a look at our Couples Coaching page. Whether you’re newly married or 30 years in, it’s never too early (or too late) to invest in what matters most.

With gratitude and clarity,

Chris

One response to “How a Strong Marriage Fuels Entrepreneurial Success”

1. julia Melander says:

   04/23/2025 at 9:28 am

   Nice article

   Reply