When Your Partner Is Jealous of Your Business Growth — And How You Should Respond

I need to say this loud and clear — sometimes the jealousy in a relationship isn’t about romance, it’s about business.

Recently, I realized my boyfriend might actually be jealous of me when it comes to my business hustle. This isn’t about streets or petty jealousy — this is about money, ideas, and growth. Every time I talk business, I can feel the energy shift. It’s like I’ve got my iPad out, working on my dreams, and suddenly he’s annoyed. Like, why am I educating and bettering myself that much? Why does my ambition seem to bother him so much?

Let me give you a snapshot. In February, for my birthday, I planned a girls-only trip to Amsterdam where I could work, focus, and just do me. But no — he bullied his way into coming. The vibe totally changed. He’s a drinker, I’m a smoker. At every pub he said, “I just want to get something to eat,” which really meant he wanted to get drunk. I wanted to explore ethnic spots and try real African food, but he wanted tourist pubs and pints. I was fuming.

And then there’s this: whenever I pull out my iPad to work, it’s like I’ve broken some unspoken rule. I don’t get why my drive irritates him so much. I’m here building, learning, growing, and apparently, that threatens him.

It’s not the first time he’s ducked out on my business ventures. Last summer, I was running events and catering, and I invited him to join — put in some money, help out. He said yes, then ghosted me the night of the event to go rave with friends. He always shows up late when I’m wrapping up and my food is sold out — acting like he’s just popping by. I’m not about to spend my hard-earned cash on booze just because he can’t show up for me.

Now he wants to get in business with me. I said I’m down to go halves, but I get paid monthly, so timing matters. He went and got a Jerk Pan for £60, so I said I should get my own one then he starts asking why I need one. Annoyed much? The truth? I don’t need him. I can do my own thing. I don’t depend on someone who chooses dance halls over serious business. He’s stuck in a cycle — friends, drinking, distractions — while I’m counting money and creating opportunities.

What frustrates me most? He buys into the same old slave mentality trap — Ray & his Nephews, partying, following the crowd — without realizing who owns those brands or who truly benefits. Meanwhile, I’m over here trying to build a legacy.

I paid for my own trip to Amsterdam. I don’t owe anyone an explanation for chasing my dreams. He says I need a job — yet I’m juggling multiple businesses, writing, speaking, networking, and hustling. Because my work is creative and fulfilling, some people don’t take it seriously, but it’s still work.

So here’s my message to anyone who’s feeling the same: don’t dumb yourself down to fit someone else’s comfort zone. Don’t let jealousy, laziness, or distraction from those around you steal your shine. You are multifaceted, you are worthy, and you deserve partners who celebrate your growth — not resent it.

If your partner can’t handle your ambition, that’s on them. Keep building, keep thriving, and don’t apologize for being the best version of yourself.