Christmas Money Tension? Strengthen Your Marriage by Pooling

Truth #4: NOT combining money increases odds of separation.  

This needs to be mentioned just so we recognize why it is important to not retreat to our separate corners and do our own thing, even when that might seem easier in the short run: Because it is not actually “easier” in the end. Compared to those who shared all finances, couples had a greater risk of splitting up during the 12- to 14-year study if they kept any finances separate. (An 18% greater risk if their finances were partly shared/partly separate, and a 22% greater risk if they were entirely separate.)  

Now, don’t panic if you’re looking at those numbers and suddenly realizing that your current pattern is risky for your relationship. We are not doomed by our past choices! What matters is what we do next, as we look ahead to the new year and decide how we will handle it.