Hey there, In a nutshell, I've let my GF know too much about the challenges I'm facing in my career. Last year I was recommended for a promotion by my manager, but it was denied at the end of the year by the company review committee. I made the mistake of telling my GF about the recommendation, and had to tell her about not receiving the promotion (when she inquired). As a result, she's aware of my dissatisfaction with work.

I've also messed up by letting her know that my career isn't exactly lucrative. I've pointed out on more than one occasion that I have very little income left over after covering my mortgage and living expenses (for what it's worth, I do own my home which is valued at $700,000).

I'm working hard to address my career issues by applying for other jobs, and looking into graduate school. Both of which she is aware of. However, the success of either of those ventures isn't ensured, and both will take quite a bit of time.

I'd like to receive suggestions for how to improve her view of my career. On the plus side, my career field is generally regarded very positively by my peers (environmental consulting); I've recently had a high profile project make it to front page news; and have been saddled with significantly more responsibility at work (probably the most frustrating part about not being promoted).

This hasn't caused any issues in our relationship, and she's expressed nothing but sympathy and desire to help me achieve my goals, but I'd far prefer that she have great admiration and respect for my career.

For background: I'm 31 years old. My gross income for 2014 was $75,000 (I had a lot of savings when purchasing my home). I live in a very high cost of living area. She's a 29 year old PhD student with a MA degree. I have a BA. We've been together 7 months. Great relationship.