The Importance Of Discussing Money In Relationships
Breaking the money silence ...
Posted by Sam Bradford on 28/12/2023 @ 8:00AM
Money plays a pivotal role in our lives, and its influence extends deeply into our relationships. In the UK, money worries are cited as the most significant strain on couples, with over a quarter admitting to feeling this pressure ...
Money, with all its complexities, is an integral part of our lives and relationships. Let's break the money silence!
Despite its undeniable impact on relationship happiness, many find it challenging to broach the subject of finances with their partners. A 2019 report by Lloyds Bank revealed that half of UK adults consider discussing money a taboo.
"44% have avoided the topic with their significant other!"
Keeping financial secrets, often termed 'financial infidelity' can erode trust and create a chasm between partners. Just as one would feel betrayed by a romantic affair, discovering that a partner has hidden debts, undisclosed expenditures, or even secret savings can lead to feelings of betrayal and mistrust.
Around 50% of couples have kept a money secret from each other and I feel this underscores the prevalence of this issue, which is why open conversations are important. If you confront them head-on, you can prevent misunderstandings and foster a healthier relationship.
Here's a simple approach to breaking the money silence:
Dedicate Time: Set aside 15-20 minutes for a focused conversation.
Celebrate Successes: Each partner should share a financial success story. This sets a positive tone and encourages openness.
Active Listening: While one speaks, the other should listen without interruption, ensuring both perspectives are heard.
Stay Curious: Approach the conversation with genuine curiosity, free from judgment. This fosters understanding and empathy.
Reward Openness: After the discussion, engage in a shared activity, whether it's a walk or enjoying a meal together.
Associating financial conversations with positive experiences really can reduce apprehension in future discussions for both partners.
Joint accounts and shared financial responsibilities can be particularly challenging. They require trust, transparency and mutual understanding, and differences in earning power or financial attitudes can lead to disagreements. However, with open communication, couples can navigate these challenges and find a system that works for them both.
Money, with all its complexities, is an integral part of our lives and relationships. I know from experience with my many clients that by breaking the silence and fostering open communication, couples can strengthen their bond and navigate financial challenges together.
Until next time ...
SAM BRADFORD
Would you like to know more?
If anything I've written in this blog post resonates with you and you'd like to discover more about why breaking the money silence really can be good for your relationship, it may be a great idea to give me a call on 07887 832222 and let's see how I can help.
I have been advising private individuals and businesses as a Financial Planner for over 20 years. I am a Chartered Financial Planner and Fellow of the Personal Finance Society and a Certified Money Coach.
As a Chartered Financial Planner, I hold the highest level of qualification available in the Financial planning profession as well as gaining a masters in Finance in 2021. I set up my own financial planning practice in 2020 to follow my passion of bringing straight forward, honest and easy to understand financial advice to those who need it.
I live in a 400 year old cottage with my husband, 2 dogs (Maia and Greg), 6 chickens and 3 beehives!
I love being outside and in nature and feel right at home digging in the veggie patch or going on road trips to the amazing UK countryside in our trusty camper van! I love being part of our local community and have volunteered as a scout leader for over 15 years as well as being the current President of the Rotary Club of Milton Keynes.
For fun, I also love all things creative from playing my accordion and guitar to painting and knitting! My most recent hobby has been to learn how to ring church bells at our local church (but this is still very much a work in progress!)
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