Couple with a combined worth of $1.5 million frequently disagrees about money, and an expert predicts that even if they earned an additional $10 million, their arguments would not cease.
Ramit Sethi, a self-made millionaire and money expert, frequently encounters couples on his "Money for Couples" podcast who experience different levels of income and net worth, yet feel unhappy about their financial situation.
Sethi informs couples that while they may believe that having more money is the solution to their feelings, it is often not the case as people's emotions towards money are not always directly related to their bank balance.
On a recent podcast episode, Nathan, 35, and Linda, 37, illustrated the concept of financial disagreement despite earning a combined $365,000 annually and possessing a $1.5 million net worth.
Linda and her husband, who have two young children and recently moved into their "dream home," are currently in their most expensive financial position due to their high income, child-care costs, and a higher mortgage payment. They owe $1.5 million in debt, which includes their business and their home.
Sethi stated that they can comfortably meet their financial obligations, but Nathan is incredibly stressed about money. They sought advice from Sethi on how to feel more financially secure, but most of his suggestions did not involve paying down their debt or controlling their spending.
'I know I'm thinking small'
Sethi focused on the couple's money psychology to get to the root of their stress, as their finances were already in good shape.
Sethi stated that to build deeply rooted confidence in decision making, one must acquire competence.
Nathan and Linda are proficient in managing their finances, perhaps to an excessive degree. Nathan's anxiety about money stems from his frequent scrutiny of their budget spreadsheets, accounts, and purchases, such as a backpack for their child or organic groceries.
Nathan stated that we could purchase non-organic broccoli and it would still be acceptable.
Linda holds a different perspective - she believes that providing her family with nutritious and high-quality food is crucial.
Nathan said, "I agree to a certain degree, but when it hurts our bottom line, I sometimes suggest cutting out certain things."
Sethi stated that while the cost of organic groceries may not be a concern for a family in their financial situation, it highlights a larger issue.
Nathan's pursuit of perfection, instilled in him by his parents, has resulted in him missing out on the joy of living the life he and Linda have worked hard to create.
"Nathan stated, "I am aware that I am thinking small. However, I aspire to think big and enhance my skills in doing so." He added, "Although I am constantly striving to improve, my insecurity about doing the right thing may cause me to overdo it at times.""
'The opposite of worrying is relaxed'
Nathan's identity is defined by his constant stress and worry about money, to the point where he feels intimidated to stop worrying because he believes it's part of his hard work and dedication, Sethi said.
Sethi inquired about the opposite of stress, to which Nathan replied, "relaxed, calm."
Sethi advised Nathan to seek therapy as the best way to address his anxieties, which he believed were not grounded in reality. Despite his knowledge of psychology and its application to money matters, Sethi emphasized that he was not a therapist.
"Our emotions can sometimes lead us astray, even if they are real," he stated. "Even if you earned an additional $10 million, you might still feel bad about it. This issue requires a significant amount of effort to address."
Sethi advised the couple that their investments are currently on track to provide them with a comfortable retirement lifestyle, allowing them to slow down now. He suggested they reduce their investing to feel more confident about spending money on necessities and leisure activities.
"Sethi advised parents to give themselves some grace, stating that they can afford it since they are fortunate. He emphasized that it is a tragedy to live a smaller life than one has to."
Check out the full episode here.
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