Meaning: This quote by John Hewson, an Australian politician, reflects on the difficulties he faced in his personal life as a result of the demands of his career and the pressures of establishing new careers with his wives. The quote provides insight into the challenges faced by individuals in high-stress professions, as well as the impact of work-life balance on personal relationships.

Hewson's words convey a sense of regret and frustration, as he expresses his desire to not separate from either of his wives. This suggests that the strain of their respective careers and the lack of time for themselves took a toll on their marriages. The phrase "accumulated stress" implies that the challenges they faced were not isolated incidents, but rather a build-up of pressure over time. This could be a result of the demanding nature of their work and the sacrifices they made in pursuit of their careers.

The mention of "after politics" indicates that the pressures of political life played a significant role in their personal struggles. Political careers are notoriously demanding, often requiring long hours, frequent travel, and constant public scrutiny. The transition out of politics into new careers likely added another layer of stress, as they worked hard to establish themselves in different professional fields. This period of career transition may have further strained their relationships, as they navigated new challenges and uncertainties.

The quote highlights the challenges faced by couples who are both invested in demanding careers. Balancing the demands of work with the needs of a relationship can be incredibly difficult, particularly when both partners are pursuing ambitious career goals. The lack of time for themselves mentioned by Hewson suggests that the couple may have struggled to find opportunities for quality time together, leading to a sense of disconnect and strain in their marriages.

It is worth noting that Hewson's willingness to acknowledge these challenges publicly is significant. In doing so, he brings attention to the personal toll that high-stress careers can take on individuals and their relationships. By sharing his experiences, he contributes to a broader conversation about work-life balance and the impact of career demands on personal well-being.

In conclusion, John Hewson's quote provides a glimpse into the personal struggles he faced as a result of the pressures of his political career and the challenges of establishing new careers with his wives. The quote serves as a reminder of the impact that work-related stress can have on personal relationships, and it underscores the importance of prioritizing work-life balance in high-stress professions. By sharing his experiences, Hewson contributes to a broader conversation about the complexities of managing career aspirations alongside personal well-being.