Twice a week we publish problems that will feature in a forthcoming Dear Jeremy advice column in the Saturday Guardian so that readers can offer their own advice and suggestions. We then print the best of your comments alongside Jeremy’s own insights. Here is the latest dilemma – what are your thoughts?
I am one half of a reasonably successful business partnership of 30 years. I get on well with my partner and we have shared many successful contracts through the years, but also had a few downs, some disappointing years and three recessions. Our business has provided both of us with a very acceptable lifestyle. We are not millionaires but neither are we on the breadline.
My dilemma is that I am now 63 (my partner is 57) and I would prefer to work part time. I have discussed this with my partner – he wants to continue full time. I am now not particularly busy as my contracts have dried up and so feel guilty that he is working and I am not productive – although I have set up an arm to our business in a new but related field and hope it will bring new business soon.
I have not been drawing a wage over the past year or so, but my car, petrol and expenses are still paid out of the company. Where should I go from here? Should we divide the company and go our separate ways or should we stay as we are?
Do you need advice on a work issue? For Jeremy’s and readers’ help, send a brief email to dear.jeremy@theguardian.com. Please note that he is unable to answer questions of a legal nature or to reply personally.
