She Strengthens

Breaking the Silence: The Liberating Power of Talking About Money

Growing up, I was taught that discussing finances was taboo, a topic more sensitive than religion or politics. It was a secret to be kept hidden, lest others judge us as being too rich or too poor. My wealthy uncle once warned me, “Be careful when discussing money; you never know whose feelings might get hurt.” I took his advice to heart, determined to one day be as financially savvy as he was. But years later, I realized that my silence had come at a great cost.

Fear and Shame: The Consequences of Financial Secrecy

By not talking about money, I had become afraid of it. I was too proud to ask questions, too ashamed to reveal my financial struggles. Even my closest relationships suffered from my secrecy. My boyfriend, with whom I shared everything, didn’t know the full extent of my financial situation until recently. The consequences were dire: I was savings-less, in debt, and had poor credit. It was then that I realized I had to break the silence.

The Two Fears That Hold Us Back

We’re often hesitant to discuss money because we don’t want to seem poor or rich. We’re surrounded by people who may be earning more or less than us, and we fear being judged or pitied. This fear creates a divide in our relationships, making it difficult to have honest conversations about our financial lives. We avoid talking about money because we don’t know what judgments are waiting for us.

The Power of Openness

But I’ve learned that talking about money can be liberating. By being open and honest about my financial struggles, I’ve empowered myself and others to do the same. It’s not about sharing every detail, but about creating a safe space for conversation. When I started talking about money, I found that others were eager to share their own experiences and advice. We began to support each other, exchanging tips on saving, investing, and negotiating salaries.

Finding Common Ground

The key to having these conversations is to start with common ground. We all have financial struggles, and by acknowledging them, we can build a foundation for open discussion. A simple question like “Do you ever think about how much we spend on drinks every month?” can lead to a fruitful conversation and even lifestyle changes. By being honest with my friends, I’ve become more accountable and smart with my finances.

A Life Transformed

Since I started talking about money, my life has improved dramatically. I’m no longer afraid to ask for what I deserve, and I’ve seen my income increase significantly. I’ve also become more confident in my financial decisions, and my relationships have deepened as a result. Talking about money shouldn’t be taboo; it should be the norm. Our social circles should be a source of support and feedback, not a group we fear being honest with.