A couple absolutely needs the core directions to be similar. If what was meant is just professions, professions too, ultimately have to be compatible in a way that works for the couple.
Sometimes one career influences the ability for the other to exist. Sometimes both parties want to be location independent. Sometimes both careers are going strong and no one wants to give up or miss an opportunity.
Being in a long term long distance relationship for over 5 years at least in my one situation has drilled home: direction is relevant and important.
Having too many friends who are doctors and programmers:
- Having a incompatible schedule starts out as a small thing
- Small things become big things
- Big things become distance creators, emotionally, mentally, and then physically
- Then we wonder how we got here.
Hope I didn't add to the confusion from other comments.
Sometimes one career influences the ability for the other to exist. Sometimes both parties want to be location independent. Sometimes both careers are going strong and no one wants to give up or miss an opportunity.
Being in a long term long distance relationship for over 5 years at least in my one situation has drilled home: direction is relevant and important.
Having too many friends who are doctors and programmers:
- Having a incompatible schedule starts out as a small thing
- Small things become big things
- Big things become distance creators, emotionally, mentally, and then physically
- Then we wonder how we got here.
Hope I didn't add to the confusion from other comments.