Asking for a friend: I used to see my partner a lot more before he started doing shift work. Is it a good idea to move in together so we can spend more time together again?

"We both used to do 9-5 hours and spend all weekend together too, but now he is doing shift work and works late a lot, and some occasional weekends. The new job is a step up for him so I feel like I can't complain. He's happy in it, but I miss spending so much time together. It's just not the same and I worry that in the future it will break us up."

"If you have spent the last few years living in each other's pockets, you may have given less attention to other areas of your life, such as your hobbies, friends and family, or even just having some quality alone time. It's not healthy to have a partner be your entire world, as there are many parts of life who make us who we are, not just a romantic relationship."

Partner transferred offices and now works shifts, reducing weekday and weekend shared time despite a career step and happiness in the role. The change has removed shared breaks and sneaked conversations, causing worry about relationship stability and prompting consideration of moving in together. The situation can be an opportunity to rebuild personal independence. Investing time in hobbies, friends, family and quality alone time can rebalance life. Relying entirely on a partner is unhealthy. Multiple life aspects contribute to identity beyond the romantic relationship. Consider gradual changes and open communication about expectations and compromises.

Read at Independent