JOY FEELINGS MAGAZINE July issue | Page 44

your significant other, don't let work distract your attention. Put away your BlackBerry, stop talking about your next big proposal, and halt all conversations about your gossipy coworker. Instead, discuss topics you as a couple both enjoy. On the plus side, you'll find that occasionally disconnecting (fully) from work will make you more productive when you return to the office. 3. Manage Your Time The number one factor in job loss and relationship breakdown is lack of time and dedication. Successful professionals who are in relationships know this can be avoided with a little forethought and planning. If your career demands that you work long hours at the end of the month, plan a weekend get-away with your guy the week before so you can share time before your required separation. Equally, after a vacation or break from work, come back to the office energized and eager to get back to your job. Show your boss that even though you value your relationship and personal life, you are similarly devoted to your professional success. 4. Stay Connected Social networking exists for a reason—to reach out and touch people. Spending time at the office is unavoidable, but ruining your relationship because you have a job is 100 percent avoidable. The fix? Take five minutes each day to send a quick private message to your significant other, write on his Facebook wall— heck, even send a quick email to let him know you're thinking of him. But please, this shouldn't be a novel, nor should you s