Money shouldn’t be a barrier to happiness in relationships
Money can destroy a relationship. Money can ruin many fairytale relationships that were meant to be happy.
Statistics also show that money can be a deal breaker in relationships. TD Bank released an interesting report about the relationship dynamics between money and relationships.
According to TD Bank’s survey, nearly 60% of couples in committed relationships discuss money and finances at least once a month. One-third of married couples admitted to arguing about money at least once a month.
Shockingly, 44% of divorcees said they had a fight or argument every month about money when they were married.
These statistics should convince us all that poor or no money management can ruin a relationship. We are not here, however, to bring gloom into your life and that of your partner. This article will highlight five money-related bad habits that could be a deal breaker for you and your partner.
Watch out for these warning signs if your relationship already suffers from financial issues.
Don’t talk about money, and don’t set shared goals
Being open about money when in a relationship is no longer considered harmful. Money is an essential thing in today’s world. Money is the fuel for our lifestyle. You should discuss your financial visions, dreams, and hopes with your partner if you’ve decided to spend your life together.
Remember that you may not be bothered by having differing opinions on finances initially. This disparity may have long-term consequences. You both must share the same short- and long-term financial goals. You must both be on the same page in deciding how much money you would like to save, for example, five years from now.
You can also iron out any differences you might not have known before. Promise each other to actively discuss finances every month, rather than only arguing or talking about them when you are in a tight spot.
A lack of financial discussions and similar long-term goals can cause tension in a relationship.
Hide debts and money
Cheating in relationships can be physical, emotional, or financial. Hide your partner’s bank account or an outstanding debt is also cheating. It can be as painful and have the same consequences as infidelity. Not disclosing a partner about a stock investment, bank account, or other capital ventures shows a lack of trust.
Remember that you will not hide this information forever from your partner, especially if you decide to stay with them until death does your part. After years of friendship, a person can be devastated to learn you don’t trust them.
CNBC reported that 31% of respondents believe a secret checking/savings account or credit card is worse than being unfaithful.
Hiding debt requires a more nuanced approach. Many people are embarrassed to talk about outstanding student loans or mortgages. Many people also worry that their partners will lose interest in them if they reveal such information.
You may have a legitimate concern, but burying it in the sand is not good. The debt will haunt you and your partner when they find out. It is best to tell your partner about any debts you may have before committing yourself to them. This will help to prevent any strain in your relationship.
Opening a joint bank account in a hurry
You should not open a joint bank account if you haven’t decided whether or not to get married. Remember that a joint bank account will not seal your marriage and solve your financial woes.
It could be worse if there is still disagreement on how you want to use the money in the account.
You could consider setting up “married finances.” Each partner would keep a personal account, which they can use as they please. A joint statement for paying bills is something you both share. But be careful not to insist that bills are split pro-rata. Does it mean you’re only 60% committed if you earn 60% and your spouse makes 40%? No, of course not. Share your bills with 100% commitment without expecting a perfect balance.
Earning too little income
Money can’t make you happy, but it can take the stress out of a relationship. Money is essential to living life fully and checking off your bucket list. You might also have children as your relationship develops. This will increase the need for income.
You will find that your relationship will suffer if you don’t increase your income.
We do not advocate sacrificing the balance between work and life to earn more money. You can add passive income streams to your bank account in addition to your primary job. Your relationship will be recession-proof with such financial support.
Manipulating emotions through finances
In any relationship, fear and insecurity can drive the behavior. Unfortunately, these psychological manipulations are used by people to gain the upper hand in relationships.
Money has two sides. Money can be used to achieve your dreams and hopes and provide for your family. Money can also be used to manipulate your partner and create guilt, shame, and stress in relationships.
It is essential to address the negative aspects of money and relationships.
It is not a good idea to use emotional attacks as a way of justifying bad financial decisions. To maintain a healthy relationship, it is essential to approach finances with a calm, rational and shared goal-oriented attitude.
Conclusion
You can’t expect to never get into a financial argument with your partner. It is possible to change bad habits in money management and poor decision-making. These actions can help to prevent irreversible economic damage in any relationship.