Fete Lifestyle Magazine February 2020 - The Relationship Issue | Page 27

C

hew's

V

iews

oney issues have long been

the number one cause of

relationship disharmony

and divorce, yet when it comes to identifying and changing unhealthy money patterns and behaviors, many couples feel helpless. There are easily 40 books that I know, which are partly or fully dedicated to couples and their money. It can be confusing if you are looking for the “silver bullet salvo”, so I will provide some items that are basic to living “financially ever after” when it comes to your money.

M

Communicate, Communicate, Communicate

I know it’s a basic tenet of any sound relationship, but you need to get this one right…all the time. And who should you communicate the best with when it comes to your money? Surprise, it’s yourself! You must have the courage to know what you are earning, what your expenses are and what you are saving/investing. So, in the world of Richard Chew, that means doing a personal budget with the money, resources, expenses etc. that you bring to the table. If you have not taken the time to know what you’re really earning, what your expenses are and what you are saving/investing you will only complicate things for your partner. Once you have those pieces figured out then you are far more equipped to effectively communicate with your partner about your joint finances and how to make them a great asset (pun very much intended) in your relationship. Now you are ready to have intimate conversations about money in a healthy, loving and empowering way!