Barbara Corcoran, the renowned real estate mogul and television personality from Shark Tank, is no stranger to offering unconventional advice—whether it pertains to business or personal life. Recently, she made headlines with a candid revelation about her unique approach to maintaining intimacy and harmony in her marriage. Corcoran, 74, revealed that she and her husband prefer separate bedrooms, and her reasoning has sparked widespread debate: it keeps sex “short.”
This intriguing insight from Corcoran, a woman who built a billion-dollar real estate empire and commands attention on national television, underscores how even the most successful people navigate their personal lives in ways that might defy societal norms. In this article, we’ll unpack Corcoran’s comments, explore the growing trend of separate bedrooms among couples, and examine the implications for relationships and intimacy.
Who is Barbara Corcoran?
Barbara Corcoran is a self-made millionaire, celebrated for her role as one of the “sharks” on the popular ABC show Shark Tank. Born in Edgewater, New Jersey, Corcoran turned a $1,000 loan into a $5 billion real estate business, The Corcoran Group, which she eventually sold for $66 million in 2001. Known for her sharp wit, entrepreneurial wisdom, and no-nonsense approach, Corcoran has become a beloved public figure and an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Her personal life, however, is equally compelling. Married to retired FBI agent Bill Higgins since 1988, the couple has two children and has been together for over three decades. While Corcoran rarely delves into her private life, her recent comments about separate bedrooms have shed light on her approach to sustaining a long-lasting marriage.
The Revelation: Separate Bedrooms Keep Things “Short”
During a recent interview, Barbara Corcoran shared her perspective on marital intimacy and the role separate bedrooms play in her relationship. According to Corcoran, having her own space allows her and her husband to maintain a sense of individuality and boundaries. More surprisingly, she noted that separate bedrooms also keep their sexual encounters “short,” a comment that raised eyebrows and sparked discussions about modern marriage dynamics.
In Corcoran’s words, this arrangement allows for a healthier relationship dynamic by eliminating unnecessary friction and creating intentional moments of connection. “You don’t have to be up in each other’s business all the time,” she quipped, highlighting how this setup allows her and her husband to focus on quality over quantity in their time together.
The Growing Trend of Separate Bedrooms
Corcoran’s revelation aligns with a broader trend among couples who are opting for separate sleeping arrangements. Commonly referred to as a “sleep divorce,” this practice has gained popularity in recent years, particularly as awareness about sleep health has grown.
According to a 2021 survey by the National Sleep Foundation, nearly 25% of couples report sleeping in separate bedrooms or beds. The reasons for this choice vary but often include:
- Snoring or Restlessness: One partner’s sleep habits, such as loud snoring or tossing and turning, can disrupt the other’s rest.
- Different Sleep Schedules: Couples with mismatched work hours or bedtime routines may find it easier to sleep apart.
- Temperature Preferences: Disagreements over thermostat settings or blanket preferences can lead to tension.
- Space and Comfort: Sharing a bed may feel cramped, especially for light sleepers.
While separate bedrooms were once considered taboo or indicative of marital trouble, they are increasingly being embraced as a practical solution to common relationship challenges.
Does It Affect Intimacy?
The notion of separate bedrooms often raises concerns about its impact on intimacy. Critics argue that physical closeness at night—whether it’s cuddling, talking, or simply sharing a space—plays a crucial role in maintaining emotional and physical intimacy. However, proponents of separate bedrooms, including Corcoran, suggest that this arrangement can actually enhance intimacy by fostering intentionality and reducing friction.
For Barbara Corcoran, separate bedrooms seem to serve as a tool for keeping things exciting and efficient. The idea of keeping sex “short” may sound unconventional, but it reflects her belief in prioritizing quality interactions over routine or obligatory encounters.
In this context, intimacy becomes less about habit and more about choice. Partners who spend their nights apart may feel a renewed sense of desire when they do come together, as absence can indeed make the heart grow fonder.
The Psychology Behind Separate Spaces
The idea of separate bedrooms can be tied to a psychological principle known as individuation, which emphasizes the importance of maintaining a sense of self within a relationship. While shared experiences and routines are essential for bonding, preserving individual autonomy can prevent feelings of suffocation or resentment.
Separate spaces—whether they are bedrooms, offices, or even hobbies—can provide partners with the breathing room they need to recharge and maintain their personal identities. For someone like Barbara Corcoran, who has built a career on independence and decisiveness, this philosophy likely extends into her personal life.
Lessons from Corcoran’s Approach
While Corcoran’s preference for separate bedrooms may not be for everyone, her openness about her unconventional arrangement offers valuable lessons:
- Every Relationship is Unique
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to marriage. What works for one couple may not work for another, and finding the right balance often requires trial and error. - Prioritize Quality Over Quantity
Whether it’s intimacy, communication, or shared activities, focusing on meaningful interactions can strengthen a relationship more than frequent but shallow exchanges. - Communicate Openly
The success of separate sleeping arrangements—or any unconventional choice—depends on open and honest communication between partners. Setting boundaries and expressing needs is crucial. - Embrace Change
As relationships evolve, so do the needs of both individuals. Being open to change and willing to adapt can help couples navigate new challenges and maintain a strong connection.
Public Reactions to Corcoran’s Comments
Unsurprisingly, Corcoran’s candid remarks have sparked a wide range of reactions. Some praised her for normalizing an arrangement that many couples already practice in private, while others questioned whether separate bedrooms could lead to emotional distance. Social media users chimed in with their own experiences, with many noting that separate sleeping arrangements had improved their relationships.
Others, however, interpreted Corcoran’s comments about keeping sex “short” as a reflection of the realities of long-term relationships. While some saw humor and pragmatism in her approach, others viewed it as a commentary on the challenges of sustaining passion over decades.
The Broader Conversation About Modern Relationships
Barbara Corcoran’s views contribute to a larger conversation about what modern relationships look like in an era of changing societal norms. From sleep divorces to open marriages, today’s couples are redefining what partnership means, prioritizing mental health, individuality, and mutual respect over traditional expectations.
Corcoran’s success as a businesswoman and her long-lasting marriage are testaments to her ability to balance ambition with personal fulfillment. Her willingness to share her unconventional choices invites others to reflect on what works best for their own relationships.
Conclusion
Barbara Corcoran’s preference for separate marital bedrooms is more than just a quirky anecdote—it’s a window into the evolving dynamics of modern relationships. By prioritizing personal space and intentional connection, Corcoran and her husband have found a formula that works for them, challenging traditional notions of intimacy and partnership.
As conversations about relationship dynamics continue to evolve, Corcoran’s candidness serves as a reminder that love and commitment can take many forms. Whether or not separate bedrooms are the key to marital bliss, her story underscores the importance of finding what works best for each unique couple.