Two thirds of couples don't talk about money

Two thirds of couples do not talk about money before making a commitment to each other. *

I wonder if this is because in the throws of early romance it can be hard to bring reality into your romance. This is particularly true if you feel financially inexperienced financially.  Financial problems are filled with stress and shame and it can be really hard to have that conversation.

Things and people are not always as they appear. 

I get to have many conversations every day with people about their income, spending habits, investments and savings. I have to interview people all the time for my job – and I have a series of questions to ask any potential client. These are not dissimilar to what you should know about your future partner!!

And what they need to know about you!

I see a lot of couples who are similar when it comes to money and a few that are different. 

So here is your list of a quick and deep dive into your and your partners situation:

1.      What do you earn? 

2.      What do you own?

3.      What do you owe?

4.      Do you pay your bills on time?

5.      How financially savvy are you?

Now sitting down and having a financial date night is just about the most unromantic thing I have ever heard of!! Also, how comfortable will either of you be having a big bright light on your finances – this can bring in a need to exaggerate the good and hide the shame…not helpful to anyone. Stealth is the answer!  These conversations can happen in bits and pieces over time. 

A smaller question to get you thinking is: do you own or rent? How long have you lived here? When did you buy? What is your future plan with home ownership?

These small questions will start opening the conversation about how each of you view money and your money mindset. It might be an area where some work needs to be done in terms of how you view money and how it can work for you – but you must start somewhere!

Phoebe x

*relationships.org.au January 2019 survey Finances& Relationships