COLUMBIA, S.C. — The topic of money and finances can be a tough subject to bring up to family members and loved ones, especially around the holidays.
Financial Therapist Steven M. Hughes spoke with 'News19 This Morning' to provide some tips to consider if you do have to bring up the subject of finances around the dinner table.
First, Hughes suggests to lead with questions, not assumptions. He says the worst thing to do in money conversations is to have your mind made up on what you believe the other person is feeling or thinking. Use open-ended questions to help keep the dialogue going.
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Second, Hughes says to focus on one topic. He adds that you should be direct with what you want to discuss. He also says that trying to tackle all of the money concerns at one time could make other people in the conversation defensive.
Finally, Hughes says to not try to be the financial expert. He suggests bringing a piece of content to the money conversation that can give family members a new way to look at the finances. He adds that it can be difficult for the people closest to you to take your advice.