I caught DH in a good mood this afternoon, and showed him my spending plan for Checkbook Number One. I wrote it on an index card, and since it's not terribly lengthy or complicated it's easy to digest. Also included on the index card were this month's expenses in each category so far.
His reaction about it was positive.
That was nice but meaningless. Based on past behavior, I don't expect him to actually follow this plan. I just wanted to tell him what I'm doing.
He's pretty visual - perhaps I could make this information available as a pie chart? Anyone had any success with communicating information in that way to a spouse?
Discussed Checkbook Number One
April 17th, 2008 at 04:35 am
April 17th, 2008 at 05:56 am 1208408193
I would say it depends on your husband. My husband understands an excel worksheet better than anything...and basically, he just really wants to know what is his to spend and is happy with me taking care of everything else.
Good luck with whatever works for you.
April 17th, 2008 at 12:48 pm 1208432925
I do monthly recap with the wife on where we are with our goals. This helps her (as well as me) stay motivated and on track. It feels good that atthe end of the month I can sit with her and go look at what we accomplished. Also, we discuss any big items coming up that may alter the budget. Such as sending are son to summer camp.
If you can find a common goal to focus and show progress towards that might help you bridge the gap with the husband. Also, talking about big expenses before they appear as expenses is great too.
April 17th, 2008 at 01:03 pm 1208433809