Communicate Part 1

Money is hard to talk about.  In the middle of the conversation there can be feelings of pride, resentment, shame, and feeling like you don't measure up.  The results are hurt feelings, arguments, isolation and sometimes even lying to each other.

So why would you want to communicate about money?

1. You have to help each other understand the real financial state you are in.  Not only do you need to know the numbers, but you also need to understand the spending patterns that got you there.  Communicate calmly, putting aside emotions and expectations, so that goals and plans can be made.
2. You have to hold each other accountable in spending habits.  Talk things through, and establish checks and balances to head off problems.
3. You have to build trust.  When you learn to communicate without emotions in the way, you'll find that your team is coming together.  You are working together with a purpose, you can face problems together.  As you accept each other's advice and see progress being made, a new level of trust is built.