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Money is a very sensitive issue to many people. It is also a difficult subject to talk about in many relationships, unless you both have plenty of cash stashed up and don’t seem to be able to spend it all! But how many of us are really in that category? So how do you and your spouse talk about money without having to strangle each other or at the very least go through an argument?

Here are some smart ways to help you broach the topic tactfully.

1. Understand that you have the right to disagree with each other, and you need not have to sort things out at that very moment during the discussion of a money matter. If you both have major differences in opinions about a certain expenditure or saving habit, etc, and can’t get through to come to an agreement how to align to each other’s ways, then just set off with some time to think it through. But think it through you should, and make sure you set a time to come back to each other with solutions to a workable compromise. Not everything needs to be sorted out immediately.

2. You also should understand and recognise that each of you have your own interests or passion for something in life. Some of these may require you to spend money periodically or regularly to indulge in these activities, be it traveling, playing sports or even shopping. Give each other some space and don’t come down too hard on the expenses on these items provided they are not overboard.

3. Some people do not believe in borrowing money from friends and family. Should you come to such a need, you should talk it out between the two of you and see if you both are agreeable and comfortable with such arrangements. You should both also be agreeable on who you are comfortable borrowing from.

4. On the other hand, if friends or family members approach any one of you to lend money, you should also talk this out between the two of you. Should either one disagree, then you need to decide how best to approach the situation in a calm and logical manner. For the party who disagrees, constructive reasoning helps instead of just saying no. At least make the other party understand the concerns at hand. Don’t let a third party’s money issues come between you. Whilst it’s easier said than done to not feel upset even though your partner goes ahead to lend the money despite your disagreement, just take it in stride and do not adopt the “I told you so” attitude should things not go right. Remember you need to be supportive of each other and your “I told you so” does not help the situation. In fact, it worsens things! So keep in check.

5. If you need to make a big ticket purchase, do discuss with your partner. Tell your spouse how you plan to fund it and that you won’t put yourself in financial jeopardy with that purchase. Sometimes, it is a matter of security that we need to be rid of the threats of going broke because of overspends!

6. Be clear from the start about digging into your joint savings for big purchases. You need to agree what the funds can be used for, and what not. And each of you need to follow that rule and not use it up at your whim and fancy. You may want to use that saved up fund only for emergencies or to set up business or to pay for your children’s education. If you have already established the purpose of that fund, make sure you stick to it otherwise you’ll likely cause a lot of disputes!

Post from: Health or Money?

For a child so young and innocent, she has already understood that love cannot be bought. Although there were offers of money coming in, she declined and said that it was of no use to her. All she wanted was love.

The money could not buy her the love that she yearned for. A love so tragically taken away from her, a love that is no longer replaceable. A love she will grow up to miss, a love she will never forget.

Sometimes, I feel that it is healthier to live this way than to be easily bought over by money over love. For love is just an emotion, it can be quickly forgotten if a person is materialistic.

Post from: Health or Money?