17/11/2025
Once again my couples I see in my private practise at Crawford Wellness Centre have requested navigating a conversation around finance.
I will try providing simple steps to engage in this topic that many times causes friction and arguments.
To not overwhelm couples, I shall break it down into parts.
Part 1:
Navigating the Finance Talk in Marriage
1. Pick the right moment
It is important to pick the right time and not when either are stressed, you've had a bad day or feel resentment towards the other for a bill that is overdue. Timing is important.
Schedule a short “finance date” (15‑30 min) once a week or month—treat it like any other appointment.
2. Start with positive framing
Simple dialogues are indicated below.
- “I love how we’re both trying to reach our goals together.”
- Avoid blame (“You always…”) and focus on the team mindset. When one blames, the conversation takes another direction.
3. Share numbers first
It is important to show honesty as there might have been financial infidelity in the past.
- Each partner shares income, debts, and regular expenses without judgment.
- Transparency builds trust; hidden numbers breed suspicion.
If at any moment, the conversation gets heated, back down and speak when there is calmness as we know that arguments can go from zero to a hundred causing anger, resentment and frustration and not wanting to broach the subject again.
Bottom line and some ground rules are:
- Plan the talk,
- Share openly,
- Agree on rules,
- Stay flexible,
- Keep the tone collaborative.
When you treat money as a joint project, the conversation stays constructive and even empowering. 💰❤️
I am available for consultation to broach this subject. For appointments, call 0827112259.
