4 Tips to Approach the Money Subject with a Partner
Have you found someone you really want to build a future with? Somebody who makes your heart sing and who you can actually allow yourself to be vulnerable with? The fact is, for many new couples, one of the most uncomfortable subjects is money, which is unfortunate because collaborating on money and long-term goals is an essential part of being in a relationship and settling down with someone.
While it may seem like a daunting task, especially when you're taking two different budgets and merging them, there are different ways to approach the subject so you're doing it with both of you in mind.
Talking Dollars and Sense with Your Partner
When you start dating someone, you probably don’t necessarily look forward to one day bringing up with the topic of money with them, right? Well, if things are getting serious, you will have the dreaded “money talk” at some point in time. Here are four tips to make the conversation less awkward and more constructive:
Start Small
Firstly, take a deep breath. You don’t have to plan out an hour-long conversation that entails confessing to every money mistake you’ve ever made, at least not at first. To open the conversation and get the dialogue going, all you really need to do is speak about money and finances in very general terms to test the waters. Keep in mind that this conversation might be difficult for the both of you and, if this is the case, remember to reassure your partner and communicate the desire to approach the topic with patience and ease.
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Perhaps you could talk about what you’d do if you didn’t have debt or bills to worry about. Not only is it fun to discuss What would you do with a million dollars? but it can help ease the tension of discussing this sometimes uncomfortable topic. Don't be afraid to dream big here, really get crazy and creative with your answers and have some fun with it.
Don’t Talk About It Too Soon
If you know you like someone a lot but you’ve only gone out a few times, it is probably not the time to bring up money. Since it is such a weighted conversation topic, you shouldn’t rush into discussing it. Take your time to enjoy the early part of your relationship and feel things out before you launch into a conversation about how much money you make and how much debt you have. If this is the right person for you, you’ll have plenty of time for that later.
Plus, when you go to answer the questions from your What would you do with a million dollars? scenario, you'll be a lot more comfortable having fun together as you collaborate on your answers.
Be Honest
Once you’ve had time to get a feel for your significant other, and you know you want to be with him or her for the long-term, you can start thinking about bringing up the topic of money.
That includes areas such as your debt load, savings, 5-year plan, and retirement goals. Sure, these aren’t exactly thrilling subjects, but they are important and can actually help you understand each other in a more meaningful way. It can also help you determine whether or not you have a viable future together. While this may make the conversation heavier, don't be afraid to be open and honest during this discussion.
Come Up with a Plan
So, you’ve finally made the leap and had the dreaded money talk. Since no one is perfect in any area, that goes double in the money department. As two people who care about each other, you are partners, so why not come up with a plan to help you each reach your financial goals?
Whether you take classes to better your financial know-how, or you come up with a budget to better manage your income, there are plenty of ways that you can each help each other become better versions of yourself in this area. Combine your goals and focus on increasing your ability to build a strong financial future together. Don't be afraid of the moment. Embrace it!
Get a Kentucky Payday Loan to Help Your Financial Situation
Okay, now that you have some advice on how to talk about money with your significant other, what happens during these anxious times when you’re simply trying to make ends meet from week to week?
That’s where Kentucky payday loans near me can be of great help to you and your significant other. They are a quick, easy, and convenient way to get access to emergency cash when you’re in a tough spot financially. Maybe you’re bogged down with overdue bills or an unexpected expense and need a little help making ends meet between paychecks. In as little as 30 minutes you could get cash amounts from $100 to $500. We make finding a payday loan near you easy. This amount can go along way to handling whatever it is that's making you anxious and, once the tough situation is out of the way, you and your significant other can focus on building the bright, shiny, and financially stable future you want together.
Whether you’ve been dating someone for a few months or a number of years, there’s no reason to dread or avoid talking about finances. The benefits far outweigh the risks, and you will invariably grow closer and stronger as a couple by doing so. We learn best in uncomfortable situations and relationships are no exception to this rule. Focus on learning how the other wants to navigate this situation and you'll emerge from the conversation in a healthier, focused relationship.
Note: The content provided in this article is only for informational purposes, and you should contact your financial advisor about your specific financial situation.