No one wants to constantly fight over money. However, money is one of the most common reasons couples fight, and money problems often lead to divorce. Because of this, healthy solutions to these problems are actually more valuable than money.
Arguments about money come in all shapes and sizes. Maybe you're late with your loan payments, maybe one of you made a purchase that wasn't really necessary, maybe you forgot to pay a bill and the bills piled up. Regardless of the reason for such an argument, the consequences can be severe, from loss of trust to divorce.
Over time, among couples who fight over finances, these are no longer small obstacles in the way, but big ones that begin to affect all aspects of life together and even health. And at the end of the day, it's just money and you probably don't want him to be the reason your relationship ends.
So if you and your partner often argue about money, read the tips below that could help you solve this problem.
Seven steps to stop arguments about money in relationships.
1. Recognize and respect each other's differences
People have different attitudes towards money, some are savers, others are spenders and some are moderate consumers. To begin with, it is important to know what your partner is like. This will help you keep balance in your money conversations and really listen to your partner and appreciate what they are saying. Because your attitude towards money doesn't have to be the only right one. So first listen carefully and then present your arguments.
2. Open a joint bank account
Although many people want to have a separate account from their partner, you need to be on the same wavelength for the relationship to work. If you don't want to have a joint account, keep each other informed of your financial situation so you know what you have.
Beware of shopping frenzy. Photo: Jacek Dylag / Unsplash
3. Have a serious budget discussion once a month
Once a month, when all your income has come in, sit down at the table and talk about what you need to pay and what you plan to buy. Create a backup budget. It is important to set certain financial goals for yourself every month and try to stick to them as much as possible.
4. Avoid wild spending
The two most dangerous words in arguments are generally "always" and "never." It's easy to say things like "you always do this" or "you never do that," but such accusations are often based on emotion rather than reality. Don't fall into this trap and try to avoid exaggeration when talking about money. Be careful.
5. If you have a debt, settle it together
Debts are the cause of arguments and the best service you can do is to solve problems together. Getting out of debt will take a lot of stress out of your relationship or marriage. And remember that paying off debt means making some short-term sacrifices for the long-term good.
Be careful not to fall into debt! Photo: Pixabay
6. Don't be afraid to compromise
Compromise is sometimes the key to ending arguments over money. While you don't want to compromise your integrity or destroy your financial plan, compromise can be a great option. A marriage/relationship is all about give and take anyway, so leave room for change in the plans you've laid out carefully.
7. Don't forget what brought you together
They ended up together for many reasons, money shouldn't be one of them. Don't let conflicts over money erase everything you've accomplished together or disrupt your dreams for the future.
