What Is Financial Infidelity?
When you think of infidelity, what immediately comes to mind? Is it the thought of your partner sleeping with someone else? Or maybe it’s the thought of your boyfriend talking to his pretty co-worker?
What about keeping secrets about money? Would you consider that infidelity? If not, then maybe you should.
This is called financial infidelity and it has become a huge issue in recent years. Married couples should be transparent about how much money they are making and spending. Instead, many are keeping their money matters a secret from their spouses, leading to marital stress and divorce.
Statistics show that 25% of married couples are hiding a financial secret from their spouses, whether it’s not telling them about a major expense, giving money to family members, or having a separate credit card. It seems that the main reason why is that couples have trouble talking about money. Most do not even discuss financial matters until they are married. They feel more comfortable talking about sex than money.
If you and your spouse keep mum about your earning and spending, it’s time to change that. Stop being a statistic and start being up front about finances. Here are some tips to help you feel more comfortable about the topic.
How to Talk About Money
Discussing money matters is important as a couple, as it prepares you for the future. It will help you and your spouse be on the same page about what you are spending money on as well as how much you are earning. This can help with paying bills and planning for big expenses, such as a house or car.
The good news is that you can still maintain some degree of privacy over your finances, especially if you have a separate bank account. You just need to both have a general direction and be on the same page.
Work as a team. Establish a budget together by writing down all your debts and spending habits. Also, discuss financial goals and investments with your spouse? Is it time for a new car? Do you want to buy a house? What stocks do you want to invest in?
By working together instead of against each other, you’ll be less stressed about money because you both will be on the same team. Saving money is a very adult thing to do and can even be fun. You can both look for ways to bring in even more money and treat it as a game to help you get closer.
Seek Legal Help
Infidelity can involve much more than physical intimacy with another person. It can also involve finances and when there are secrets about money, it can lead to stress, relationship issues, and even divorce.
Is your marriage rife with financial stress? Are you tired of arguing and ready to divorce? If so, Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer Edward J. Jennings, P.A. can provide dedicated and compassionate representation. Call 954-764-4330 or fill out the online form to schedule a consultation.
