As a family of four (mom, dad and 2-teenage boys), it would be so much easier if I could just setup our spending plan and ‘tell’ the others “this is what it is; now follow it”. But it doesn’t work that way and sometimes starting the conversation with others is the hardest part- especially after you’ve seen the spending leaks that are happening.  Below are some helpful tips to follow when getting together to discuss the family spending.

FAMILY COMMUNICATION TIPS:

1.Meet regularly—don’t wait for problems to occur.

2.Allow all members of the family to participate in the discussion. All of us—including children—are more satisfied with decisions we helped make.

1.SET GOALS TOGETHER.  VACATION WITH KIDS.  HOW MUCH WILL IT COST, WHERE CAN WE CUT BACK= BUY IN!

3.Clearly identify the problem:
–Is it overspending?
–Is one person a spender and another person a saver?
–Is there a problem with compulsive or impulsive shopping?
–Is there simply no plan?

4.Listen to each family member; ask questions to clarify. Understand each person’s values/attitudes toward money.

5.Don’t blame; use “I feel…” rather than “You don’t…”

6.Be ready to compromise and negotiate. Consider a written contract to avoid misunderstandings.

The little things add up…

Once you start tracking your expenses, you’ll figure out where your money is really going. Then you can identify your spending leaks.

Activity Where Does Your Money GoRead More >

The 2nd step of building a spending plan is to determine your monthly expenses.

Expenses can be broken out into three groups:

• Fixed (mortgage/rent, car payment)
• Flexible (food, utilities, clothes, gifts)
• Periodic (insurance, taxes)

What are additional examples of fixed, flexible and period expenses – not listed here- that are part of your budget? Please share in the comments on our Facebook Page.Read More >