It's one of those topics that all fantasy owners know about and deal with but no one really addresses: The toll that our hobby takes on our relationships. I've seen our game do significant damage to some couples, and it's even been known to lead to divorce in extreme cases. So, I figured I'd offer up some coping strategies that wives and girlfriends of fantasy fanatics can employ to help them come to terms with our addiction and ultimately enjoy a healthier relationship. So, this one's for the girls?.
Tip #1: Don't take it personally
His dependence on fantasy sports has nothing to do with any shortcomings of yours. That's not to say you don't have any, but that's a separate discussion. The point is, he could be married to Rachel Ray or Scarlett Johansson. It wouldn't make a difference. He'd still be planted in front of the TV every Sunday with his laptop opened to his live scoring applet. Would you expect a coke addict to quit if you asked him?
Tip #2: Accept it
It's very unlikely that you'll have success in turning your man away from fantasy sports. So, by complaining, you'll just end up looking like a nag and gaining nothing for it. Even if you do have success in stomping the life out of his passion, you're looking at years of bottled up resentment on his end. If you really want to strengthen the relationship, try embracing his hobby. You say he never tells you about his day? Ask him about his fantasy team, and you'll get a deluge of information like you've never before seen. If he can listen to you drone on about why you chose the scoop neck over the henley, you can certainly handle hearing about how Roddy White's inexplicable drop cost him a playoff berth.
Tip #3: Use positive means of dissuasion
If you really want to tear your man away from the tube/computer, try doing so with positive measures. A nice meal, for example. My wife makes a mean Mexican cornbread casserole for which I'll gladly pause Gameday. (Yes, of course I hope she reads this.) Here's another idea: Victoria's Secret. As much as you love throwing on those comfy old sweats and slapping a scrunchy in your hair, a V-string or some boyshorts are much more likely to draw him from the couch.
