Fixing common relationship pitfalls: Money

Sooner or later, a couple will face a few issues in the relationship that seem difficult to get past. Certainly a couple can't agree on everything, but here are 3 common issues that seem to cause problems for scores of couples.

Try to work these topics into conversation if you're not married or not in a committed relationship to make sure some of these biggie road bumps can be avoided.

Money

Money does not have to be a subject that is inherently troublesome. Many financial advisers will recommend to have an open and candid conversation about finances, especially if there are some sore spots. Facing up to the to the problems will be your only shot of planning to dig yourself out of a hole

• Lay out all your cards on the table about your financial situation. Negative financial surprises can certainly be a deal breaker, especially if you try to hide them at the beginning of a relationship.
  
• Don't bring up the topic during a heated argument. This type of conversation will likely not be productive, so set aside some time for discussion so neither feels threatened.
  
• Learn about the other person's spending habits. I've read that spenders tend to gravitate toward spenders. Opposites attract I suppose : 0
  
• Two words: Don't blame.
• If you're getting married, talk about making savings a priority. Having a cushion will always ease the stress of financial problems like job loss or medical bills.
  
• Decide up front which person will be responsible for paying the monthly bills.
• Allow each person to maintain some financial independence to spend money on personal hobbies or individual wants.
  
• Talk about caring for aging parents and how it might be appropriate to plan for their financial needs, if necessary.

Stay tuned for the next post-I'll teach you how to bring up money to your partner in the least painful manner