How to Stop Fighting About Money in Your Marriage
Fighting about money can ruin your marriage. You will be surprised to know that frequent squabbles about money is one of the top reasons for divorce. Couples tend to argue more about money than sex, household chores, and time spent together. Most couples are not on the same page when it comes to finances and this can often be the bone for contention.
Talk About It
One of the biggest mistakes that couples make is that they don’t have an open and honest communication about money. Each individual has different ideas and values when it comes to finances and it is important to understand your partner’s money mindset to prevent conflict. Recognize your differences instead of resisting them.
Talking about money can be awkward and uncomfortable but it is something that couples should learn to talk about. Successful couples discuss every aspect of their finances including loans, mortgages and everything else related to money.
If your partner has a spending problem, you need to talk about it. When you have a continuous open dialogue, you will be able to understand each other’s needs and wants. This can help in avoiding conflict.
Develop Financial Goals Together
When you start sharing your finances, you need to decide what you want to do with the resources. You need to come up with goals as a team and check on them regularly to ensure that you are on the same page.
If you are not on the same page and have different set of financial goals then it can become difficult to set the course for your other life goals. Check on your financial goals at regular intervals to ensure that you are on track to achieving them.
Understand Your Partners Money Mindset
It is important to understand how your partner developed a particular mindset towards money. This can help the partners in understanding each other and finding a middle ground that works for both of them.
When understanding your partner’s money philosophy, you also need to reflect on your own money philosophy. Take time to think about your individual thoughts and relationship about money. This can help in identifying exactly where you differ with your partner.
Respect Your Partners Financial Decisions
No couple will agree on every single financial decision, as they will have different priorities. In a successful relationship, partners will need to respect each other’s choices. This will help you keep an open mind even if your partner’s spending and saving habits are different. Avoid blaming your partner and try to find a solution to the financial problems that have besieged your relationship.
In most disagreements about money, emotions tend to flare up and things can easily go out of hand. When talking about money try to be calm and understand your partner’s perspective. Avoid keeping secrets when it comes to money.
It is always advisable for couples to have full financial disclosure before marriage. Financial transparency needs to be maintained even after marriage. This can help in keeping the relationship healthy.