On men, relationships, and self-discipline

Some lessons from a failed marriage and healthy partnership.

Background: mutual failings

I wish I had understood what marriage requires when I tried the first time. I divorced during the pandemic and found someone who inspires me to improve in all aspects of life. Without him, I wouldn’t be myself today, nor would I have risen so far in my career. We are intellectual equals, and we both value self-improvement. Most importantly, our views on morality and approach to life align. He helped me get over my extreme emotional volatility and provided the stability I needed to move past depression in his approach when the waves came. 

Having a partner who pushes you to be better and rises to the occasion is imperative. My ex-spouse did not value self-improvement and was complacent in his approach to everything. He did not work out and constantly complained about various physical issues that would have been improved by exercise and some discipline. He did not maintain friendships or a social life, nor did he have hobbies. By the way, gentlemen, video games…