Ramit Sethi: Avoid These 5 Phrases in Your Money Conversations
Written by
Adam Palasciano
Edited by
Cory Dudak
Commitment to Our Readers
GOBankingRates' editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews and information. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and services - our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and our products and services review methodology.
20 Years
Helping You Live Richer
Reviewed
by Experts
Trusted by
Millions of Readers
Many people leave money talk out of their conversations, but it doesn’t have to be that way. If you choose your words carefully, money doesn’t have to be as scary or uncomfortable of a subject as it may seem.
Financial literacy is crucial to avoiding money problems and staying on top of your personal finances. However, many Americans don’t seem comfortable talking about money at all, according to an Empower survey. Here are some key results to note:
- 62% of Americans don’t talk about money overall
- 63% of Americans don’t talk about money with their family
- 75% of Americans don’t talk about money with their friends
- 46% of Americans don’t talk about money with their partner or spouse
Here are five phrases to avoid when having money conversations, according to financial guru Ramit Sethi:
‘I Just Want To…’
Sethi explained in a post on TikTok that the word “just” on its own has a sort of minimizing effect on your financial goals. It’s critical to not reduce the importance of money in your life. “Just” doing something won’t contribute to building a financially secure life for yourself.
‘Budget’
While budgeting may be helpful for some, it can be stressful and overwhelming for others. It might be best to leave this word out of money conversations altogether.
‘We Need To Get Serious’
The word “serious” automatically adds a stern (and possibly intense) tone to any money conversation. If you’re trying to make the conversation more approachable and lighthearted, it’s important to leave out harsh phrases like this one.
‘Credit Card Bill’
Credit card debt is usually never good, and if you carry too much of it, you’ll want to get rid of it as quickly as possible. However, starting a money conversation with credit card bills or debt at the forefront can be an automatic turnoff or even an immediate non-starter. Consider starting with lighter topics as a segue into such a serious money issue as credit card debt.
‘You Always…/You Never…’
In many cases, starting a sentence with “you” can sound like you’re pointing fingers and seriously turn someone off. If you’re having a money conversation with your immediate family or significant other, use the word “we” rather than “you.” It can seem less accusatory and help make the conversation more comfortable for all parties.
More From GOBankingRates
