Is The Economy Killing Your Marriage?

A recent Oprah Show discussed the negative affects our bad economy is having on marriages.  M. Gary Neuman was on the show sharing tips for recession-proofing a marriage to couples who admitted letting depression, grief, anxiety, and shame over foreclosures and job loss take priority over their marriages.

It’s understandable why marriages are struggling with the added stress of making ends meet.  If financial strain is wreaking havoc on your marriage, consider…

Neuman’s 5-Step Action Plan:

Step 1: Fight for Your Marriage
"Make that decision. Look at each other, hold each other and shake hands," Gary says. "[Say,] 'We are are absolutely going to get through this.' We don't have to be perfect. We just have to be really honest."

 

Step 2: Set Aside Time to Talk About Money
"It's crucial to have almost a business meeting where it's contained," Gary says. Talk about finances for 30 minutes or an hour, and then move on. "Look at the reality, then don't talk about it again until the next meeting. We don't want it constantly bleeding over into every conversation."

Step 3: Go Outside of Yourself
"When we're depressed, we tend to keep everything within," Gary says. "We need to go out—go to family, friends, ask what they're doing. Everybody is suffering in some way. The more you network, the more you find out."

If you don't have anyone to talk to, Gary suggests DebtorsAnonymous.org, which has online support groups.

Step 4: Bring the Kids On Board
"Sit them down as a family," Gary says. "[Tell them:] 'We're going to get through this. There might be some changes; we might have to cut back on some things. We'll learn what necessities are.'"

Don't get too specific, Gary says, like telling them exactly how much money you have. "Just let them know that there are changes and that's okay," he says. "[Say,] 'Families go through changes…but we're going to be in love with each other, and that's all we need to get through anything."

Step 5: Keep Living as a Couple
You can still go out on a date night, Gary says, just don't spend money. "The best date night my wife and I ever went on, and we've done it for years, we go to an old age home," he says. "It's free, and I guarantee you will feel great when you leave. You give to people, you learn about these wonderful people who have things to say and things to share. Go help others."

The most important thing is to keep acting as a couple in love. "Marriage is not about just having fun or good feelings when there's good times," Gary says. "It's the decision that we're going to live together and always give and have meaningful, important times for each other no matter what's facing us."

Remember, difficult financial times don’t have to break your marriage.  It could bring you closer together.  Stick together and help each other.  Also remember, you are not defined by the job or material things you had.  You are still the same beautiful, powerful, and loving person you were before all that.  This is a good time to set a positive example for your children on how to effectively manage stressful situations.

Source: www.glue4families.today.com