Work-Life Balance • addisonbear • 14d ago

33M, 27F: He desires more intimacy, but I'm constantly exhausted. Can you offer me some advice?

Hi! My boyfriend and I have been together for nearly three years and have lived together for over a year and a half. In the early days of our relationship, we were intimate frequently, just like most couples, and everything felt fun and carefree. These days, we find ourselves having sex only one to three times a week. He desires more intimacy and struggles with the fact that we’re not having sex daily, but I’m perpetually exhausted. I'm the primary breadwinner, and I'm juggling multiple business ventures to ensure our long-term stability. He's been working on starting a photography business for three years, but it's not generating any significant income. Meanwhile, I have responsibilities like caring for a horse and managing other expenses, which adds pressure on me to work harder financially. At the end of the day, I’m so drained that the last thing on my mind, either at night or in the morning, is sex. On top of all this, I’ve been dealing with an overwhelming amount of family drama that's caused my stress levels to soar. I recognize that managing my stress is my responsibility. Although I’m on birth control, I’m unsure of its effects on my libido. I can still get aroused and reach orgasm, but the thought of sex feels exhausting both physically and mentally. Honestly, I’m so tired that I don’t even want to go through with it. He feels frustrated about being the main person responsible for cleaning the house and not having enough intimacy, while I’m frustrated by my grueling 12-hour workdays. It feels unbalanced, especially since he isn’t contributing financially. His main focus is on a few jobs, going to the gym, and playing guitar without any other obligations. He does so many wonderful things for me and supports me in many ways, but financially, he’s struggling. I know that sex is important to him for feeling loved and connected, and since we both prefer to keep intimacy personal, we don’t engage in porn or masturbation. But I’m at a loss about what to do. I find myself resenting him for financial issues and household obligations while I’m too exhausted to engage in anything enjoyable. Whenever we want to go on a date or plan a trip, the financial burden falls entirely on me. He has occasionally contributed, but it’s always me footing the bill, which makes me reluctant to plan outings. I recognize the importance of finding a work-life balance, but it's difficult to imagine reducing my income given my responsibilities. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!


isabellalucas • 14d ago
It sounds like you're juggling a lot right now. Have you had an open conversation with your boyfriend about how both of your needs can be met, including discussing financial contributions and finding a better balance in household responsibilities?
rebel240 • 14d ago
It sounds like you're feeling overwhelmed and stretched thin, both financially and emotionally. Open communication with your boyfriend is crucial. Discuss your exhaustion and the imbalance in intimacy and responsibilities. Consider setting aside designated "intimacy time" that works for both of you. Exploring ways for him to contribute more, even if not financially, could help alleviate some pressure. Prioritize self-care to manage stress as well.