Money conversation
starters guide
A practical guide to talking about what money really means to you
- 'I worry constantly that something bad will happen financially'
- 'I'm scared that my current security won't last'
- 'The thought of losing my job or income keeps me up at night'
- 'I'm afraid I'll never have enough, even when I'm doing okay right now'
These prompts are designed to help you start conversations about money emotions that matter, with clarity, honesty, and without shame. It’s worth noting that these prompts are just to help you get started, and there may be other points that you want to ask and raise – this is up to you, and whatever you feel comfortable sharing.
You can use them in conversations with a partner or loved ones, or simply as journal prompts for personal reflection.
In conversation with a partner or loved one:
- 'I'm scared about our financial future, and it's keeping me up at night. Can we create a plan together that helps me feel less afraid?'
- 'I'm afraid of losing everything we've built. Can we talk about what financial security actually means to both of us?'
- 'I know I can be a bit controlling about money sometimes. I think it comes from being scared of things going wrong. I want to work on it, but it would help if you understood why I’m like that.'
- 'I grew up watching my parents worry about money, and now I'm afraid of the same thing happening to me. Can we talk about what you learned from your upbringing?'
- 'I'm genuinely scared I won't have enough to retire. What do the numbers actually say, not just what I'm imagining?'
Solo reflection:
- 'What am I actually afraid of: the reality, or the story I'm telling myself?'
- 'What's the worst-case scenario I'm imagining? And what's the most likely scenario?'
- 'What would make me feel 5% less afraid about money today?'
- 'If fear wasn't driving my financial decisions, what would I do differently?'
- 'Where did my money fear begin, and is it still serving me?'