Picture this: your family crowds around watching Netflix while devouring fancy takeout. Weeks later you cancel Netflix and have to cook something boxed for dinner. You’ve experienced the change. The change can be unexpected bills or a job loss and typically leads to increased tension and stress levels. Your kids feel it too. Just like adults, kids get used to their unlimited channels, summer vacations, and buying the latest toy. Unfortunately, we all have to go through tough financial problems at some point, but depending on how prepared you are and how you handle it, the less painful it will be.
The Strain of Financial Problems
Money worries put a bigger strain on family relationships than almost anything and are cited as one of the leading causes to divorce. But it doesn’t have to be as bad as it sounds. Financial problems can actually make you closer. When money is tight and the family is barely surviving paycheck to paycheck, simply change your attitude and find ways to rethink your spending. It’s time to take out the red pen, cut expenses, and put your best foot forward. Here are a couple ways you can survive the financial problems weighing down on your family and get back to the fun you once had.
Believe It Will Get Better
Staying positive is the most important thing you can do -and it’s contagious. The more positive you are the more positive your family will be. Hope is a motivating force that will help you move forward together.
Stay Financially Organized
A little organization can go a long way when times are tough. Things like using a budget spreadsheet or an online money manager like Mint.com can make life a whole lot easier. These tools can also provide a simple way for you to see where you are spending the most each month.
Have Open Communication with Your Family
Be honest with your significant other and especially with your children. But don’t tell the little ones more than they need to know. Avoid the scary details that might worry them. Stick to brief explanations and be clear about changes to the family budget. By having open communication, every one will understand a little bit more when you have to go camping this summer instead of the usual far-away destination.
Set Aside a “Money Date”
When do you talk about money at home? Is it while you’re stressed out paying bills or in bed when you’re trying to relax? The best way to talk about money is to set aside a pre-arranged money date. Sure, it’s not the most romantic date you’ll ever go on, but just sitting down together to work on your family financials can be really beneficial. It can make planning and budgeting a team effort instead of a war.
Enjoy Things that are Less Expensive
Having fun on a tight budget can be tough, however if you get creative there are many ways your family can still spend time together. Start thinking outside of the box. Go for bike rides, explore the outdoors, go to museums, or have a picnic. If you feel like you’re saying no to the candy, Legos, coloring books, and that awesome superman shirt, take the kids to the library instead. You will soon be saying “yes” to free CDs, DVDs, and books for story time.
While it can be hard when money is tight, it doesn’t have to be the end of the fun family memories. You may not get the expensive pair of shoes or the latest video game that every other kid has, but the time you spend together as a family will fulfill you so much more. It may even make you wonder why you even felt like you needed Netflix in the first place.
Need some direction, a plan to meet your goals? It’s time to contact us so we can help you work with a life coach.
Written by Cathy Warschaw, CPC, ELI-MP
Founder & Make It Happen Coach
www.UpAllNightCoaching.com/dental
800.660.6707
© Up All Night Coaching, 2016
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