The Real Cost of Love in the City ( the dating series)

Hiya Peeps

When making love connections how many of us consider the impact on our finances? Both immediately and in the long term. Traditional rules of financial courtship no longer apply as the single women of 2011 is more than likely to have her own spends, Benz and club promoter friends. This can make dating challenging when trying to figure out your financial bottom line; many of us have failed historically to implement boundaries over our wallets in the same way we do over our hearts which can lead to complete chaos; putting our homes, credit scores and financial stability at risk.

In the early stages of courtship it can often be men that are left counting the cost’s of love due to dinner invitations, movie tickets etc etc…. although women do incur some basic costs due to preparation factors such as dewy light make-up, nicely coiffed hair and tasteful date attire; it is nowhere near the imposition that has traditionally been placed upon men.  Today many of us choose to go Dutch or opt for coffee or drinks rather than a full blown date night in order to control costs.

It's all about the Benjamins baby!

As a relationship proceeds past its new love haze we are expected to invest further by endorsing all the various occasions that are aimed at lovers which include valentines, birthdays, vacations/weekends away, Christmas and of course parties. As love deepens so must our pockets as we support our Spouses through life’s rigours.  Modern dating presents a range of quandaries which can include the financial devastation of a partners divorce, dependent children/ parents and ongoing health conditions. Inevitably financial lines blur as mutual responsibility grows; what used to be mine becomes ours and vice a versa.  It is imperative that we address all major financial situations as early as is deemed appropriate as money worries can dampen the most passionate romances.

1. The Beggar
2. Mr/s Bad credit
3. Spend thrift

When dating any-one with the above issues please proceed with caution.  People often lie about their financial solvency; watch  attentively, for peoples actions rather than what they say. Over time any problems will become obvious. Ideally your partners ideas about money should be similar to your values. 

If you happen to be one of the above please remove yourself from the dating scene while you get it together. You are not ready to date; uncontrolled finances is a key  life performance indicator or red flag.

Suze Orman offers  a range of financial advice; her books can be found on Amazon for next to nothing.

Please comment as I will be recording a podcast for this post and would like to discuss any contributions made.