Helpful Tips for the Road Warrior.

Until 8 months ago, I used to live for the road. I was a consultant for an international consulting firm and I aggressively pursued engagements that required extensive travel. Traveling engagements were always the most fun and they paid the most money. For me, the most difficult aspect of traveling was hearing the frustration in my wife's voice because she had to handle most of the household responsibilities. I never thought to make provisions for her so that my absence wouldn't be a heavy burden....until a client asked me what he could do to help his wife while he was away.

If I thought more about what she went through, I would have done the following things to make life easier for her:

1. Check her vehicle for any service it may need and arrange for repairs to be made PRIOR to your departure. This includes checking the tires, oil, and addressing any lights that may be blinking on the dashboard. The last thing she needs is to have vehicle trouble, especially if you have school aged children. Several dealerships will pickup/drop off the car at a location convenient for you.


2. Put a full tank of gasoline in her car the day before you leave. If you're leaving on a Sunday night or any day during the work week, you'll make the following morning much easier for her if she doesn't have to worry about running out of gas.


3. Buy enough groceries to last through the first week of your travel. Shopping in a crowded grocery store is challenging. Shopping in a crowded grocery store with a hungry child requires super human abilities! Be sure to buy enough food so she won't have to visit the grocery store until the weekend.


4. Coordinate any household services that may occur while you're away. Schedule the cleaning, pool maintenance, and lawn services for times that will be convenient for your wife. Write checks for the amount of the service in advance and tell your wife where to find the payments.


5. Iron your children's clothes for the week. When my wife traveled, I actually used to do this to make the morning ritual less stressful. It makes a HUGE difference in your morning.

BONUS TIP: Your wife can help you with these tasks and it gives you some quality time together before you have to leave.

I write my blog as if I were speaking to men but it's applicable for both genders. These tips will make life easier for your wife and in most cases they bring you closer together. You can't ask for much more before you leave on business.

If you would like to know how Kennedi Taylor Concierges can help you, visit our website at www.kenneditaylor.com.