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Life planning by young women inevitably refers to different time structures. However, it was only recently that researchers began to consider the impact of `private' time structures and experiences in the life course. As working hours become increasingly flexible and the boundaries between work and private life become blurred, attention is drawn to the conflicting relations between time structures in the public and in the private sphere. In the following text we focus upon the significance of occupational time constraints for private life and life planning by couples in young adulthood. Based on an empirical study we explore the different ways in which the temporal structures of training and paid work, and of commitments to significant others are reflected in the biographical decisions of young women. Through case studies we illustrate the knowledge about occupational time structures that young women draw on when making biographical choices. We also examine the ways in which young women are establishing links to their partner's life course and life planning. Finally we discuss the opportunities and risks of various biographical configurations between paid work and commitments to others.