How to stop arguing with your partner over finances

Money is a stressful subject for any conversation, especially when it’s with your partner. If you’re having difficulty broaching the topic, here are some tips.

Video Transcript

- Battling with your partner won't help your finances or the well-being of your relationship. Instead, find out how you and your partner can work together for financial freedom. Before the arguments have a chance to start, understand one another's financial outlooks. You'll be better able to know where the other is coming from, and you'll be less likely to fight. When you get everything out on the table, you can compromise and make decisions that help both of you get what you need.

Budget and plan together. Make sure both of you know the amount of money that's being made, where it's going, what debt you have, and other key financial points. Your family will operate better if two people are working for common goals. Look for answers, rather than contributing to problems. In arguments, we want to vent our frustrations. But what's more important is discussing problems with a focus on finding solutions.

If you feel an argument flaring up over finances, breathe and stay calm. It's important to discuss all matters with an open and calm mind, especially when you're talking about money. Therefore, when you do discuss money, put on some calming music or take deep breaths. Feel free to take breaks when you talk. If things get too heated, take a walk together and chat about something else, or take a walk alone so each person can clear their head.

Whatever way you choose to spend your break, when you rejoin to discuss, you'll be better able to talk calmly and rationally about the topics at hand. If all else fails and things still aren't getting better, consider seeing a financial advisor. If your marriage is rocky because of finance-related fights, it may be wise to consider seeing a marriage counselor. Stay financially fit, friends.