50/50 Partnerships Destroy Relationships

Okay, not every time, but more times than not. Here are the typical steps:

1.    Two good friends get an idea for a fun and exciting business

2.    They like and trust each other, so they create a 50/50 partnership because neither wants to act like the “boss” of the other

3.    Then they realize they must agree on EVERY decision made for the business

4.    Since no two people in the world agree on EVERYTHING, they begin to experience many conflicts and arguments

5.    The business suffers from the lack of a clear vision and consistent leadership

6.    Their relationship suffers because their business is no longer fun and exciting

7.    Both partners are frustrated, so they end their partnership with bad feelings and a damaged or destroyed friendship

If you want to make the odds against you even worse, then create a 50/50 partnership with your spouse. Then you run the high risk of role conflict by trying to turn a life partner relationship into a business partner relationship.

The requirements of a good life partner are very different than those of a good business partner. The next thing you know, instead of enjoying life together you’re spending all your time stressed and arguing over business decisions at dinnertime. Both the business and your relationship suffer.

Of course, 50/50 partnerships don’t always fail. I’ve seen friends and couples who make it work beautifully, but these folks are in the vast minority. They are people who have achieved a nirvana-like state through their highly developed emotional intelligence and business savvy.

If you’re still considering a 50/50 partnership, then like the officiant says at the altar, it is “not to be entered into lightly or unadvisedly, but reverently, discreetly, and soberly.” Mazel tov!

Don’t be a stranger. (770) 993-1129. tdockery@TheResolveFirm.com