Does Financial Compatibility Matter In A Relationship?

Remember that one scene in Crazy Rich Asians where Astrid just arrived from a shopping spree and had her maidens hide her purchases from her husband? I find it really hilarious, but when you look at it from a different angle, there’s something serious going on between the two of them. Quite obviously, it’s their financial compatibility. 

In a relationship, financial compatibility is often set aside. This act of negligence has resulted in disasters. So does financial compatibility matter? Yes, it does. Suppose you’ve stumbled upon a financial compatibility quiz online and found out that you and your partner have contrasting results. Maybe it’s time to sit down and talk about it. Here’s why:

To avoid future arguments and mishaps

Knowing how your partner is terrible at managing his/her finances at the very last minute is a recipe for disaster. If your partner has poor financial management skills, you can help out each other and make him/her learn along the way. Although it’s risky, having to personally discipline your partner and embarking a knowledge that you could give can be considered as fulfillment for some.

Maybe your partner’s income is lesser than yours. Or it could be that he/she has a family inheritance and your in-laws are sensitive about it. There might be personal inferiorities or insecurities that would be brought up, leading to a more complicated and draining argument. 

You must talk about your spending habits, their financial goals, even their financial literacy so that both of you will find each other on the same page. Arguing about money is really stressful and frustrating. Avoiding a conversation about it will only add more oil to the flame.  

To have a mutual agreement of finances

If you’re the type of couple who ignore gender stereotypes, including finances into the mutuality should be considered. Paying utility bills, handing investments, saving up on joint bank accounts, and all other related issues should be mutually agreed upon. Do both of you agree to pay bills alternatively every month? Do both of you follow a 20-80-20 rule of saving money? These questions aren’t commonly voiced out, but it’s essential to hear a clear answer from both of you.

Another issue that both parties must agree on is about spending habits. There’s really nothing wrong with your partner’s spending habits, but if it is already affecting your relationship, it should not be tolerated. Let’s say your partner has been quite fond of gambling or betting lately. If this is something that concerns you, it should be attended to.

To strengthen your partnership as a whole

In a strong, mature, and healthy relationship, growth is one of the great things that come along with it. Personal growth as individuals and growth as partners. Setting your financial goals, supporting each other, and enduring the process of achieving them will help the both of you become better at handling finances, life in general.

Of course, there will be setbacks, but if you had a discussion with it beforehand, it will not be a source of friction. Instead, both of you can work and contribute to overcome the issue. Although resolution can be challenging, sharing the struggle will also become one of your strengths in a relationship.