In times when finances are tight or causing stress, don't let money drive a wedge between you and your partner. Work on developing "financial intimacy". Get to know your core beliefs and allow your partner to understand and trust your financial awareness. Financial intimacy can be developed by:
1. Making your partner your financial partner.
2. Communicating and working together to address financial issues.
3. Understanding each other's point of view.
4. Managing your money styles - spender vs saver - and negotiating differences.
Create financial harmony by:
- Treating money - and each other - with respect.
- Committing to living within your means and taking care of your future.
- Knowing what your major individual and shared goals are, what they will cost and when you hope achieve them.
- Developing a plan - and following it!
And if you can't manage as a couple, be sure to get counselling and financial assistance to ensure your relationship weathers any financial storm. The Counselling Place, Tel: 6887 3695, www.thecounsellingplace.com
