If you have a reliable spouse, you probably already know what a blessing that is ... but in case you're taking that special someone for granted, now there's actual research proving just how valuable he is, literally! According to a study published in Psychological Science, those who've aligned themselves with careful partners they can really count on have a tendency to be more successful -- meaning they make more money, get more promotions, and feel happier at work.
Wow. Is reliability the new sexy?
Lead author Brittany C. Solomon explains:
Specifically, being married to a spouse who is especially conscientious is associated with higher levels of future job satisfaction, higher levels of future income, and a greater likelihood of being promoted, even when accounting for one’s own level of conscientiousness. Even if you yourself aren’t the meticulous type, marry one and you’ll reap the rewards.
I guess it makes sense, right? While reliability doesn't always seem glamorous or exciting, it can have great benefits over the long haul. Conscientious partners are more likely to help out at home with chores, the researchers noted, and because their spouses are likely to emulate that behavior, overall, their households run more efficiently and both parties can focus on work.
But what do you do if you've inadvertently married a slacker? Uh-oh. Before you call a divorce attorney, maybe you can step up and set the good example that the study suggests your partner will follow?
I know there are times when I just want to sit down and watch TV, but if my husband is emptying the dishwasher or folding laundry, I feel compelled to either help him or tackle some other task around the house.
Don't get me wrong, I can see how this could completely backfire and you start doing a ton of work and your partner thinks, Phew, now I can just coast! Then it might be time for a heart-to-heart.
But, overall, the logic of this study seems pretty solid. While someone who's trustworthy and dependable might not make your heart race initially, those might be the traits that secure your long-term happiness and stability.
Do you agree with this research?