When do you talk about money?

Who do you talk finance with?

If you’re like most people, you’re not discussing money at all — and you’d rather talk about death, politics, and addiction, instead of finance.^{1, 2}

That may be surprising, but it’s not totally out of left field.

Many of us are uncomfortable talking about money because of deeply ingrained cultural taboos. We think it’s rude, showy, and maybe even shameful to bring up finances.²

We may also be worried about being judged for having too much or not enough money.¹

So, most of us simply avoid discussing finances altogether, even with the people who we’re closest to.¹

That’s a problem.

If we’re not talking about money, it’s easier to slip into bad habits and ignore issues that could be interfering with our financial well-being. ³

At some level, we seem to know that because most of us also believe talking about money is important — and that it’s essential to financial security and generational wealth.⁴

And it's not always about you. You may be good, you have a plan and a team helping you (like us!), you have clarity and financial confidence. (that is our goal for you!)

But what about your kids and grandkids? How are they doing? Do you even know? Pay close attention to Money Habits and Money Mindset below, sharing your answers to some of those questions could be a good place to start!

And what about your friends, co-workers or other peers? How did you feel before we put an income plan in place, before your accounts had some risk management or downside protection? Did you even know what was available? 

So, how do we bridge the gap and get better at talking about money?

For starters, we have to understand ways to kick off these conversations.

With that in mind, let’s check out some effective icebreakers for different types of money talks with family and friends.

Not receiving our newsletter?

Get insightful info on finances and more in your inbox every month with the

We never spam. By clicking this button, you consent to be contacted by a financial professional, by phone, email, and/or automated SMS regarding your financial strategy. You may unsubscribe at any time. Consent is not a condition of receiving services.

Which conversation starter struck a chord with you?

Which one will you try out first?

No matter how you answer those questions, how you approach money talks matters.

That’s because financial conversations are not just about getting a discussion going, although that is a key piece of the puzzle.

Meaningful money talks are also about your mindset and how you engage in these conversations.

That means going in with an open mind, ready to be honest, share, and listen.

It can also mean having some back-pocket strategies to guide more productive discussions with your family and friends.

One of those strategies can be zeroing in on a really specific topic, instead of talking generalities or big-picture issues, which tend to be overwhelming.

More focused financial conversations can be easier to wade into, especially if you’re starting to talk money for the first time (or with someone new).

It also helps to think of money talks like a learning curve.

They won’t all go the way you expect, but each discussion can be eye-opening, giving you more to work with the next time you talk money.

With that, any of us can get better at discussing finance.

And that can be key to improving financial literacy and our money habits, not just for ourselves, but others too.^{4, 5}

So can the right support from people you trust, remember, we are always here to help you as well as your family and friends.

Live your Dream!

    Michelle and Bev

    Bertram Financial

    http://bertramfinancial.com

    608-987-1511

P.S. Check out our family and friends page on our website, it can always be found under resources.

Not receiving our newsletter?

Get insightful info on finances and more in your inbox every month with the

We never spam. By clicking this button, you consent to be contacted by a financial professional, by phone, email, and/or automated SMS regarding your financial strategy. You may unsubscribe at any time. Consent is not a condition of receiving services.

Michelle and Bev

http://bertramfinancial.com

michelle@bertramfinancial.com

608-987-1511

Content prepared by Snappy Kraken. 

All investments are subject to risk including the potential loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss in periods of declining values.

This guide is provided for informational purposes only; it is not designed as advice for an individual’s personal situation. The information contained in this material is believed to be reliable, but accuracy and completeness cannot be guaranteed; it is not intended to be used as the sole basis for financial decisions.  Our firm does not provide, and no statement contained in the guide shall constitute, tax or legal advice. All individuals are encouraged to seek the guidance of a qualified professional regarding their personal situation. 

10/24-3913029#C