Usually, the only time couples get to money talk is when financial issues are already staring right through their faces. This, more often than not, leads to fights that produce nothing but more problems. So while there’s still no crisis on the table, make it a point to talk about your finances regularly and use these tips to properly handle this important but highly sensitive subject.
Start with your mistakes. Stop the blame game. Nobody likes it when other people point out their bad habits – yes, even if they’re true. If you’re about to give out highly critical comments, make sure that your partner knows that you recognize that you have faults as well. Recognize your weaknesses and ask for your partner’s help. Give him/her time to recognize his/her own faults too. In that way, you’ll have an easier time pointing out problems.
Try a new, positive approach. Most of the time, financial issues are shed under a negative light. Once we sit down with our partner, we start discussing what we’re doing wrong and how we got in this mess. Instead of doing this, start focusing more on the strong steps you should be doing to get your finances right.
Don’t let other topics creep in. If you’re talking about an overlooked car payment, stay on that topic. Avoid talking about how your partner chose a lavish out-of-the town trip with your in-laws or how dinners with friends forced you to overspend. All of these things should be considered, but deal with them later for they might unmask unnecessary emotions that can distract you from coming up with reasonable financial decisions.
Source: Mint
