Dear Clara:
A few weeks ago, I became the first female CEO in my company, and everyone was proud of me, except for my husband. He’s a substitute teacher, and he hates his job. So, he resents my success, and he puts me down a lot. That breaks my heart because for the past 15 years, I’ve worked long hours while raising three children without his support. And even though I’m dead-tired, I’ve always satisfied him in bed without complaining. But now I’m tired of putting up with him, and I don’t think I love him any more. I also don’t respect him. Divorce has been on my mind a lot. What do you think?
> Superwoman burnout, Shelly

Dear Shelly:
It sounds like you’re doing everything alone, so I can understand your burnout. A spouse is supposed to be supportive and loving, especially when your lifelong dream has come true. So it must be sad and disappointing that your husband is working against you. It must also be tough being a career woman, a mom and femme fatale at night. You shouldn’t carry the load all by yourself.

Your husband is first and foremost threatened, on top of being narrow-minded. His ego is fragile, and he can’t stand the fact that you’re more successful than he is. And it’s too bad he hates his job because teaching is a noble profession. He probably hates himself, too, for not being a better provider, but that doesn’t give him the right to put you down. These are all his issues, and it is not about you.

But since this is affecting your marriage and probably your children, it is time to have a serious talk and see if he is willing to go into counseling to deal with his resentment and inferiority complex. If not, you will have to make some serious decisions since you don’t love or respect him any more, which is pretty serious. But before you consider a divorce, try a separation. Exhaust all your options, so you won’t have any regrets, especially with three kids in the family.

Dear Clara:
I got an MBA over a year ago, and I couldn’t find a job. So out of necessity, I went to work for my parents’ clothing store. I’m not interested in this field, but I didn’t want to live off my aging parents any longer. The only problem is that we are together 24/7. We work, eat and live together. We are in each other’s face a lot, so we bicker, too. And on weekends, my brother brings his kids over and we spend more time together. I’m totally OD’d on my family. What can I do to get some time on my own?
> Family overdose, Henry

Dear Henry:
Being with anyone 24/7, even someone you adore can drive anyone to craziness. So I can understand your problem.
First of all, I applaud you for working with your parents. I see a lot of unemployed graduates lounging around their parents’ house and taking advantage of them. So, you’re ahead in many ways. But since clothing is not your area of interest, I suggest you continue to look for work that will utilize the MBA and your talents in the near future. Don’t give up on that. A year is not that long. Also, you MUST move out and live in your own place. Even if it is a hole in the wall down the street, get it for your sanity. I’m sure your parents could use some space and privacy, too. Unfortunately, your situation is common these days. A lot of graduates are having a hard time finding jobs, but I think you are lucky to have parents who can help you out and vice versa. And it is good to be working, instead of doing nothing, which is a waste of the mind and the soul. Good luck to you.