She Strengthens

The Taboo Topic: Why We Need to Talk About Money

Growing up, my family avoided discussing certain subjects, including politics, religion, and especially money. It was as if mentioning financial matters would somehow taint our family’s reputation. But this silence came at a cost. When my mom revealed she was facing foreclosure, I was shocked and felt betrayed. Why had she kept this secret from me for so long?

The Consequences of Secrecy

By not discussing financial struggles openly, my mom created a mess that I’m now forced to clean up. This experience has taught me that it’s essential to break the taboo surrounding money talks. As millennials, we need to take care of ourselves and, eventually, our parents. But how can we do that if we’re not aware of their financial situations?

Breaking the Silence

It’s time to shatter the notion that polite adults don’t discuss money. We need to create an environment where open and honest conversations about finances are encouraged. Share your own financial successes and setbacks with your loved ones. This can help them develop better habits and understand the importance of financial responsibility.

Setting Boundaries

Some parents may use guilt trips to manipulate their children into providing financial support. Remember, their financial situation is not your responsibility. Prioritize your own financial and emotional well-being, and set clear boundaries. Instead of giving them money directly, offer to pay bills or purchase necessities on their behalf. This ensures transparency and control over your hard-earned cash.

Extending Empathy

Our parents’ generation faced unique financial challenges, including a lack of knowledge and exploitation by wealthy companies. We can relate to their struggles, and it’s essential to acknowledge the interconnectedness of our financial struggles. Rather than pointing fingers, let’s work together to break the cycle of financial secrecy and ignorance.

Taking Control

Ultimately, the only person you can change is yourself. By educating yourself on finance, setting boundaries, and breaking the silence, you can create a better financial future for yourself and your family. Even if your loved ones don’t change, you’ll have taken a crucial step towards securing your own financial stability.