When couples think of a date night idea, they might picture candlelit dinners on a rooftop, long bike rides along the trail, a weekend beach getaway, or a Netflix-binge night in. While these are all fun and games, what if we told you a financial planning night could be just as romantic?
If you are married or have been with your significant other for a while, you likely have had a conversation or two about how the bills are divided, and who is paying for what. Yet, while money can be one of the greatest sources of tension in any relationship, it is evidently necessary to grow and live with one another.
For one financial expert, he explains financial planning for couples does not have to be a tough conversation. In fact, it might even be one of the most meaningful ways to bring your relationship to a deeper level.
“One way my wife and I make this process enjoyable is by turning our yearly financial planning into a creative event. We pull out a large paper calendar, grab some colorful markers, pour a glass of wine, and turn on some music. As we map out our year of activities and commitments, it becomes a visual and enjoyable journey of planning not just our schedules but also our finances. It acts as a perfect catalyst for discussing short-term financial goals and organizing them in a clear timeline. Such a positive and relaxed setting encourages open communication, making financial planning a shared adventure rather than a chore,” shares Michael A Scarpati, CEO of RetireUS, a platform focused on expert financial strategies.
Financial compatibility amongst couples is important to properly align on long-term goals, priorities, and values. Having these conversations with your partner can also help better prepare for the future and bring a larger sense of trust to your relationship. After all, research finds that couples who do discuss finances are more likely to stay together than not, says the American Psychological Association.
Plus, the concept of a financial planning night does not have to be stressful, and you can even jazz it up with creative elements and activities. One example of this could like:
- Set the vibe. Choose a time when you’re both free and decide on a safe space to have the date night. Light a candle, pour a drink, and play your favorite soundtrack in the background. You can also keep it fun with a meal you both love.
- Gather your tools. Grab a calendar, colorful writing utensils, and any other planning items you’d need. You might even consider making it visual with stickers and graphics.
- Talk goals. Share with one another what you hope to get out of the date night. What topics do you want to discuss and how do you want to proceed after you talk about money?
- Make it interactive. Color-code as you need, take turns jotting important notes, and truly conversate with each other. That also means you can joke around if you find the night gets too heavy.
- Keep it positive. Remember, money does not have to be sensitive! You’re in this together, so make it a judgement-free zone.
More often than not, you’re in the same boat as so many other couples, and therefore, you and your partner should never feel alone in regard to money. If anything, you are hindering your relationship if you don’t start planning financially.
At the end of the day, a financial plan is just one part of being a couple. And when you make space to have tough conversations, you will find yourselves more at peace and well-prepared for your financial–and overall–life together.
Next time you’re planning a date night, skip the Netflix series and pull out the financing documents instead. Your budget might just become your new love language.
Money talks, but so should you.
