DH is attending a conference in TX, at a 5-star resort in San Antonio, in his role as Pres of his industry assn state chapter. He is so excited to go, has been missing travel. I am PISSED that he is going, no upside for our family, no pay, only risk. He is actually laid-off anyhow, not working. Trip paid for by the assn. I am so upset, think he is doing this for his own gratification while he risks bringing covid home to us. Thoughts?
I would be anxious / worried, too, but are you sure there is no possible upside? Could this be a networking opportunity for a new job? I wouldn't be excited about the travel for sure, but I don't think iti's bad to do high profile things when you're networking for the next gig. He'll have to quarantine for 2 weeks when he gets back, though, which stinks all around for you. But hopefully it leads to something positive.
You might be overreacting. If he's laid off and not working (for how long?) he's probably feeling pretty depressed, and it's reasonable that he's excited to be back in the professional world.
Also, could the conference and networking provide some new opportunities for work? Even if not immediately, keeping his name/face front of mind might pay off in a few months if things pick up in his industry. I would see that as an upside.
Yes you’re over reacting. The Covid risk is real but he can manage around it. Build him up rather than tearing him down right now.
They need to build each other up right now. these are tough times all around. One person doesn't get to get built up while the other feels demoralized.
Agreed but only one of them has been laid off which is a big blow to confidence
How do you know only one has been laid off? I don't think OP said that. And regardless, her feelings about the risk matter, too.
I would be very annoyed with this too. Yes, networking is important but it wouldn't be worth the risk of getting sick. The rates in Texas now are insane. No way would I be okay with going. Can he stay somewhere isolated for 2 weeks when he returns?
What will the conference be like? My dad was invited to an industry conference in December at a 5 star resort. All conference sessions are being held remotely, but they are still having an official conference location/hotel so attendees who want to go can still have unofficial networking meetings outdoors if they want.
If DH won't be sitting in a room with 50 other people all day, I think there is probably a way for the two of you to discuss how he manages his risk while still being able to go if he feels like it would be good for him both professionally and mentally.
If DH will be sitting in a room with 50 other people all day, then you have every right to say, "hell no!"