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Is Money the Ultimate Dating Deal Breaker?

Women are outearning their male counterparts. Yet, when it comes to matters of personal finance, many average Janes behave like scared schoolgirls, afraid to disclose their money matters to their partners. What gives? According to Bonnie Weil, Ph.D., a relationship expert, many women commit what she calls “financial infidelity” — they lie about their expenses, hide purchases, and keep their debt a secret from their husbands and boyfriends. The net result could be as ruinous to a relationship as an actual affair.

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ADMIT YOU’RE A CLOSET SPENDER

closet spender, money, relationships, relationships and money, women and money closet spender Are you embarrassed or afraid to discuss purchases with anyone? Closet spending is a lot like closet eating—symbolic of a deeper problem. You may be using money as a tool to preserve control over the relationship. You may be out of control and hiding the reality. It may be worth speaking to a professional about the problem.

QUIT PRETENDING YOU’RE LOADED

money, relationships, relationships and money, women and money empty wallet We’ve all been there. You join friends for dinner at a pricey restaurant. They order steaks while you stick with the cheaper salad, then cringe when you all split the bill. If you can’t afford the restaurant or vacation with the girls, then say so. They won’t care. And you’ll save yourself the painful position of maxing out your credit cards.

COME CLEAN WITH YOUR BOYFRIEND

money, relationships, relationships and money, women and money come clean with your boyfriend When’s an appropriate time to reveal your financials to your boyfriend? “By the second date,” says Dr. Weil. That may sound pretty soon in the relationship, but full disclosure may help you both determine whether you want to move forward. (Wouldn’t you want to know if he was saddled with debt?) “The money issue will come up. And it could be a deal-breaker if you wait too long to address it.”

MEET HIM HALFWAY

relationship advice, how to talk to your partner, money, relationships, relationships and money, women and money meet him halfway If your boyfriend makes more money and lavishes you with presents and expensive dinners, initiate a frank discussion about your financial disparities. Offer to take him to some of your favorite—and less expensive—spots. Remind him you’re interested in him for more than his wallet. He’ll appreciate it, and even find that a pretty attractive quality. \r\n

AVOID ANGRY SHOPPING

money, relationships, relationships and money, women and money money, avoid angry shopping According to Dr. Weil, the average woman makes “pissed off purchases” about four times a year, spending about $2,000. “It’s an emotional hunger—‘shopping ‘til you drop’ gives you the same dopamine high you feel when you first fall in love.” But, that feeling never lasts. But the bills don’t go away.

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