So, you finally move out of your parents’ house, cut ties, and start out on this journey called life. You quickly realize that life isn’t always so easy – especially when it comes to money. Let’s be honest, money problems can be stressful enough when you’re riding solo, but add your husband/wife into the picture and you have even greater obstacles to overcome.
It has become general knowledge that half the marriages in North America end in divorce. It is a sad but true statistic. And, I bet you can guess what the leading predictor of divorce is…that’s right, money. According to Kansas State University researcher, Sonya Britt, arguing about money is the top predictor of divorce.
BUT, this is actually good news. How is this good news you ask? Well, if you master your personal finances and get on the same page with your partner about your shared finances, then you’ll have overcome the number one obstacle in relationships.
What is it that happy couples do differently? Read up on 9 smart money habits that happy couples share. It’s a great read, especially to anyone that is new to this whole marriage thing.
Every situation is different, but the money habits listed in this article are a great place to start your journey to financial soundness with your partner. Here are a few points that I found to be a great takeaway…
1. Know that money is a means, not an end
Happy couples understand that money is a means, a way to exchange goods and services. They know that ultimately, money won’t give them fulfillment and purpose. They use money to acquire assets, to travel and experience the world, and to support continued learning and a healthy lifestyle. Happy couples aren’t materialistic. They don’t feel the need to keep up with the Jones.
2. Set aside fun money
All wealth mastery gurus point to delayed gratification as a key to long-term wealth. Yet, happy couples set aside fun money, an amount of disposable income that requires no thought or consideration before spending. Tapping into the fun money barrel prevents needless arguments and stress on the relationship.
3. Find a balance
Happy couples are frugal, but don’t hoard money. They are generous, but not reckless with money. They appreciate spreadsheets, but don’t let numbers rule their lives. They gracefully walk the fine line between work and play and the fine line between saving, spending, and investing.
So, what will it be? Open and curious conversations around money or avoid money issues until they implode? Happy couples treat money as a means to an end, not a character flaw or personality trait. They approach it with a smile and look for alignment of their common goals, rather than agreement of their personal preferences.
What habits will you implement to keep your relationship happy and prosperous?
Need more helpful tips and advice for your financial situation? Feel free to contact us. We are here to help.
Info contained in this article from http://www.lifehack.org/articles/money/9-money-habits-happy-couples-have.html