Money has always been a relationship topic that’s awkward to talk about. This is why most couples just sweep the conversation under a rug. Out of sight, out of mind, right? However, no matter how long you avoid talking about money, it will still come up, eventually. When you decide on purchasing something as a couple, the relationship topic of finances will most likely be discussed.
Relationship Topic: How To Talk About Money
Most likely, money is so hard to talk about because we’ve all been taught to never discuss the topic as it is considered rude. It may be in general conversations. However, when you are in a relationship, you need to communicate effectively about anything and everything. This includes money. To avoid finances being a major source of conflict, you must learn to:
Be Transparent
The more you hide your financial situation from your partner, the more difficult it will be for your partner to understand you fully. For example, you’re worried about not being able to pay your credit card bill on time. As a result, you always mope around. When your partner asks why you’re acting this way, you tell him or her that everything is alright. Your partner will likely be frustrated because your actions don’t match what you’re saying.
Be transparent about your financial situation. It’s going to be awkward, especially if you have a ton of debt to take care of. But, it will be better for your relationship in the long run.
Be Willing To Fill In
In most cases, one person in the relationship will earn better than the other one. It’s important to remember that you are not in competition with your partner in this area. If you are the higher earner, make sure you don’t judge your better half because he or she is earning less. Be ready to fill in, financially, whenever the situation calls for it. Just make sure that your partner is contributing (even if it’s just small amounts).
Have A Clear Financial Goal
When a couple has been together for a number of years, it’s likely that their finances are combined. The couple can share rent, house bills, and so on. This is why it’s important to have a clear financial goal or plan in mind. The plan will allow both people in the relationship to know when to spend and when to save, granted that both people stick to the plan, of course.
You talk about money to ensure that your future will be all set as a couple. You don’t talk about money to brag or put the other down. It’s going to be a hard conversation, at first, but as you break the barrier, it will get easier. Who knows? Your relationship might just improve because you have handled this hurdle as a couple. Read more from our blog here.