Is Money Putting A Strain On Your Relationship?
Author: Suzanne Rucker
Researchers have found that money is a leading cause of fighting in a relationship. Here in Orlando at Life Counseling Solutions, we help couples and families talk through their financial issues and begin a financial plan that leads to harmony within the relationship. This is a real opportunity to improve your relationship. Money issues are brought about by several different emotional factors: security, independence, self-esteem, status, power, and control. Taking a look at these emotional voids is the first step to becoming financially and emotionally healthy.
Here are some commonly asked questions:
Q. What are some differences between men and women when it comes to money?
A. Men tend to be more risky with money and use it as a way to enhance their self-esteem. Women view money as a source of security, and when the money is low, women tend to become fearful.
Q. If I am thinking about marriage, what should I consider financially?
A. It is important to understand each others’ outstanding debts, total assets, monthly obligations and credit scores. A large debt load is a strong red flag.
Q. My partner has been out of work for some time now, how can I help him/her?
A. Recognize this is probably a temporary situation and approach this in a team fashion. Cut out things you really don’t need and devise a game plan for job searching. Recognize both of you will be under added stress during unemployment. Be a support for one another.
Q. We both bring in an income, should we both contribute to the bills?
A. Contribute a percentage based on your income. Example: partner #1 makes $60,000 a year and partner #2 makes $30,000. In this scenario, partner #1 would pay twice as much towards the payment of the household bills.
Q. My wife spends more than we make. She has clothes hanging in the closet with tags still on them. What is up with that?
A. There is such a thing as a shopping addiction. Addictions create a loss of balance and rationality. All addictions are rooted in immediate gratification. There is a rush of feeling good, powerful, worthy, and free of problems while addictively shopping. The long-range, destructive implications of this behavior are temporarily ignored.
If money and finances are a strain on your relationship, there is help.
Here in Orlando at Life Counseling Solutions, we can help you work through a financial plan that is right for your family. Please call Suzanne at (407) 967-9313 for an appointment.