Money Dates : A Step-by-Step Guide

Written by Aqleema Anwar

“A money date may not solve all your problems, but it’ll definitely get you closer to overall financial wellness.”

You want to have a money date, but don’t know where to begin? You’ve come to the right place! And you should be so proud of yourself for taking this first step - dating is HARD, learning to date your money may seem HARDER, but it’s not.

In a recent podcast interview it was discussed that a money date is nothing more than dedicated time that you spend reviewing your finances. And that time could be by yourself, with your partner, as a family by involving the kids or all three on separate occasions.

Approach your next money date as if it’s a physical date you’re going on. We’re going to discuss what to do before (getting ready), during (the important getting to know each other parts) and the after (the follow up call or text). And I promise, no one is getting ghosted on this date.

Before the Date

Schedule a time/date and place - mark it on your wall calendar, phone calendar, ask Siri to set a reminder (whatever will help you remember)
Is anyone joining you? Let them know the details as well.
Find a way to make your date fun/personalized - this could range from lighting candles and having a glass of wine to setting up a “money” playlist.
Gather all of the financial information you’ll need - the time spent during your money date is not for gathering your statements and receipts etc. Have all of those ready beforehand.

During the Date

Start the date with an intention or ritual - try to make this a consistent habit each time; my suggestion is to list one money win and one general win that you’ve had since your last money date; write it down each time so you can reflect back on them.
Review actual spending against your budget - is there any category that you were over or under in for the month? If so, adjust your budget accordingly during your money date so you can see how to change your spending habits for the rest of the month to stay on track.
Be proactive - Are there any expenses you foresee coming up in the next few months, be proactive and come up with a savings plan to already save for them.
Don't let money blocks or your mindset get in the way - There will be times when you don’t follow your budget - we’re all human and it happens. Don’t let one shopping trip ruin the financial goals you’re creating for yourself.

After the Date

Address any unpaid expenses - if you came across bills that were missed or money not moved into savings accounts, take care of it right away.
Action anything else that came up - for example, cancel a subscription you no longer use, create a new savings goal and move money into it etc.
Make a commitment to stick to your budget - show up for your money so it can show up for you.
Thank your money - for all the ways it has supported you.
Set a reminder for your next money date - if you don’t have one scheduled, do that now.