It’s a shocking fact that 70-80% of marriage problem is about money. Imagine the pain, stress and frustration people have to live by on constant arguments about money. This kind of situations will surely impact their children. As we realize, the most pleasure and heartache we experience come from relationships.

Perhaps, if one settles the money issue correctly before he/she gets married, will it lift up the biggest issue and has a better chance to make a marriage works? Yes, it might be true, but how about those who are married now without knowing the pre-requisite of financial management? Do they still have the chance to make it works? Will they stay till death or debts due them parts?

The following are seven steps to make money and marriage work in harmony:

1. Understanding each other background in terms of money.
People come from different family background and financial standing. Some are taught to be careful in spending money and have habits in saving most of their money while others view money to be source of pleasure. Spending becomes a way to gain pleasure and saving is a painful punishment. Do you know your spouse’s perspective about money? Have you communicated your views openly? Do you tell each other your family background in how your parents raise you in relation to money? Being open and understanding will allow your spouse to open up. It is a good idea to set some ground rules before this intimate communication started, such as listen to understand and avoid passing judgment.

2. Setting common financial goals.
Whether you are the only bread winner in the family or you have dual income family, it is recommended that you pull the money together and decide the percentage of how both of you will allocate for saving, investment, daily use, personal use and charity. I highly recommend that you set your financial goals both on yearly and monthly basis. When you create and strive for financial goals together it will bring you closer as a couple.

3. Giving each other freedom.
People have their preference in spending their money. Arguing buying the husband’s golf equipment is more important than wife’s sets of make-up is futile. One has his or her own needs to buy certain things so giving the freedom to spend is very important. The money you allocate for individual use is his or hers to spend each month. You don’t need to know what he/she spends it for.

This goes not only in spending but also in investing. Some people are high risk takers while others are moderate or low risk takers. Think of what is going to happen to your family if only a high risk taker invests and loses everything? Investing to different areas that suit individual risk appetites will give a balanced investment approach.

4. Learning about financial management.
Many of us are illiterate when it comes to financial management. Learning together creates a good fundamental for great money management. Many couples attend seminars, programs or read the same books that give them common understanding. Indeed, this is much more effective than leaving our spouse behind when we learn about money making tools. Incompatibility in knowledge and skills of financial management will surely create arguments.

5. Solving problems as a couple.
Yes, we are different in our background, experience, beliefs and perceptions and what we do with our differences will create excellent brainstorming session when you face problems. If you have debts to clear at this time, brainstorming with your family in how to create other streams of income and reduce expenses is a great way to get your family involved. Communicating financial problems with your family including your ten-year old child is a good educational lesson. Children must be taught how to manage money from early years.

6. Growing together as a couple.
Life is a never ending school. There are so many things to learn from. Sharing lessons learned in your investment will enrich each other and thus focusing on learning instead of regretting the mistakes made. Learning to support each other allow you to grow to better people. I believe that marriage can either make one better or bitter. The choice is yours!

7. Having common beliefs.
Couples who have strong common beliefs will have better chance to stay together happily. Do you share the common belief that you both are one including your money is one? Do you have the attitude of sharing and serving your spouse? Do you believe that no matter how bad it seems today, you will see the light at the end of the tunnel?

By applying the seven steps, we can eliminate the heartache of money problems in marriage. It is a journey that every couple has to take. It is our daily reality to manage money and nurture relationships that we need to face.

Secret Weapons to Financial Freedom
http://www.WealthyWinningWarriors.com

Start Home Biz with ZERO Capital
http://www.TessieSetiabudi.com