money talks

What’s Your Money Style?

According to nationally recognized psychotherapist Olivia Mellan, each of us has our own unique money style. Some of us are “hoarders” or “spenders”; others are “monks” who feel guilty about money; still others are “avoiders,” who can’t face budgeting or planning. How do these money styles play out in a couple’s relationship?

1. Money styles really don’t have any impact on relationships.
2. We normally choose to be in a relationship with someone who has the same money style as us.
3. We are often attracted to a person with a different money style than ours.

“C” is the answer. Even when both partners start out with the same money style (both hoarders, etc.), they often gravitate toward opposing money styles as the relationship evolves. This can lead to polarization and conflict. “We disagreed about money” is one of the most common complaints couples acknowledge when they divorce.