Marriage and Money

Tonight I was thinking about money and marriage.

Did you know that one of the number one reasons for Divorce has to do with money?

Isn't that sad? So how do we avoid money being a problem in our own marriage?

I would suggest that you make sure you are on the same page from the beginning.

This means that if you aren't married, to make it something that is important to you as you look for a spouse. (See: Nice Extras, Highly Desirable, Must Haves)

Talk to your significant other about scenarios such as:

What types of things are okay to go into debt for?

How do you feel about savings accounts?

How much do you think is a good amount to save?

What are your thoughts on credit cards?

When my husband and I got married and I thought we were exactly on the same page about finances. For the most part we are, but after we got married we found out we didn't see everything the same as the other.

My husband is VERY good at getting a deal with almost anything he buys. He always looks around and makes sure that its what he wants, but at the least expensive price available.

I, however, grew up with a very frugal mother whose financial philosophies rubbed off on me a bit. If you looked up "Saver" in the dictionary you would see:

Saver: One who saves money.

and then there would be a picture of my mother.

That's how I grew up. Save, save, save, and save some more. When you buy something, do your best to get an ultra awesome deal, and don't spend more than you need to.

Even though we don't always see things exactly the same, we have learned to compromise.

I remember a friend telling me about her uncle who was extremely frugal also. He was so frugal, he would drive miles just to save a few pennies. Needless to say, his marriage ended in divorce with money being a factor in the failed marriage.

Likewise, someone who spends too much money can destroy their marriage as well. Obviously if we have bad habits of spending more than we have, or gambling our money away, this can also cause strain in a marriage.

(Understand: I'm not saying frugality is a negative thing. I endorse frugality, as long as it doesn't come between you and your spouse. Your marriage IS more important than money. Over spending, on the other hand, is never good for anyone.)

Bottom line:

Don't let money destroy your marriage. Find a compromise, work together, and decide as a couple how you best want to use your money.