Saving Up for the Future – Dos and Don’ts to Keep a Healthy and Financially Stable Marriage

Note: This is a guest post from Kelly Austin.

Money and Marriage

Most couples headed down the unfortunate road to divorce will often cite money as the cause for their “irreconcilable differences”.

As we take the steps toward marriage, we base our relationship on common interests and goals. Many of us take the area of finances for granted, hoping they will “just work out.”

Our finances, like our marriage, will take work to be an area of success. Hopefully, as you entered into wedded bliss, you did so with a partner who shares the same view of money and spending as you do.

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However, if you didn’t, there is no reason to jump ship. It is possible to get on the same page and develop a closer relationship with your spouse in the process.

“What’s the Matter?”

One of the issues that plague “good” marriages is a difference in spending and saving habits.

While these differences can create ongoing conflict, the bigger issue is communication about spending and saving. As you go down the road to creating a stronger marriage and a healthy financial future, both partners must be willing to openly communicate financial goals and ideals.

You may find that as you gain ground in understanding each other’s financial paradigm, you will grow and develop other areas of your marriage as well.

Let’s take a look at some of the dos and don’ts to financial peace and harmony…

Dos and Don’ts

* Do create a budget to monitor income and expenses
* Don’t develop an attitude of “I make money so I can spend money”

* Do conduct a family meeting to discuss the budget
* Don’t get frustrated and back away from these valuable discussions

* Do come to an agreement on the allocation of all funds in your household
* Don’t become easily frustrated – give it your best shot; you can do it!

* Do set goals with your spouse on paying down debt and saving for the future
* Don’t give up! If it’s too overwhelming and causing conflict, the help of a mediator or counselor may be helpful.

* Do sit down monthly to discuss the given budget and continue to discuss your shared goals – this is a great opportunity for a date night!
* Don’t ignore the finances once you get started – it’s important to stay on top of each milestone achieved toward your goal(s).

As you come back to understanding each other’s goals and dreams, you will be able to share your financial responsibilities and develop a stronger, healthier marriage as a result.

How have you and your spouse improved the way you handle your money?

This post was contributed by Kelly Austin from Higher Salary. Visit her site for information on the average medical assistant salary and guides to other popular careers.

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