Debt Is A Trap

Good evening! I was speaking to a couple recently regarding how to get a “handle” on their bills. Winter is coming and for those of you who live in geographic regions that turn white for half the year, you know that expenses increase significantly and lets face it, heat costs have not gone down!
Without going into too much detail of their personal finances, the couple, both of whom seemed engaged in the conversation fast turned into a one man band. What do I mean?

As they discussed their concerns, the husband, who is intelligent and financial contributor to the family, slowly disengaged from the conversation. I was so distracted by his lack of interest, that her voice quickly began to fade and I focused on him even more.

You see, what had come to the surface was their lack of alignment. He agreed there is reason to be concerned about their financial health. The problem arose when it came time to find solutions. He was not ready to accept that sacrifices needed to be made in order to create some breathing room.

My point is that the entire family has to be in agreement and willing to make sacrifices if necessary to achieve your financial goals. When I mention sacrifice, I do not mean, start riding a bike 20 miles to work, nor do I mean that hobbies and interests need to be put on hold unless of course your financial situation is in serious trouble. I DO mean that every contributor to expense and income must accept and be working toward the same goals. I do not envy this gal, as without her husbands help and acceptance of a plan, she is in for a lot of frustrations and failures. Sit down and talk folks, get it all out on the table. e