If you’re dating a man who is struggling financially, I’m sure you know it can put a strain on your relationship.
Before you think about giving up or worse, putting up with financially carrying your partner in silence, you do have some options.
Here are some of the things you should consider when dating someone not doing as well as you are financially:
Tips For Dating a Man Who Is Struggling Financially
Should You Leave a Man Because He’s Struggling Financially?
First of all, let’s look at whether or not it’s a deal breaker if a man is struggling financially.
I can’t answer this for you, but it really comes down to your individual circumstances.
There is a lot more – or at least there should be – to a relationship than how well the two of you are doing financially.
Sure, finances have a huge impact on a relationship, you can’t ignore that.
In fact, financial infidelity or financial problems, in general, are one of the leading causes of breakups and divorce.
But that said, if being with someone who is struggling financially is reason enough on its own for you to leave them, the relationship was missing something else.
That something else is a deep connection, shared values, and true compatibility.
Without those things, the relationship was doomed from the start.
So, you shouldn’t feel compelled to leave a man just because he’s broke or not doing well financially, but it can certainly be a contributing factor.
Does Financial Stability Matter in A Relationship?
Financial stability means different things to different people.
For some, it’s simply having a good job and being able to support oneself.
For others, it means being debt-free, having a strong credit score, and being able to save regularly.
And for some people, financial stability means all of those things plus being able to afford luxuries and extras.
Whatever it means to you, there is no doubt that having enough money to support yourself and your partner if necessary is important to a relationship.
As soon as you start to get behind on bills and financial pressures start mounting, it can put a strain on even the strongest relationships.
If you’re dating a man who is struggling financially, it’s important to be open and honest about your finances, understanding and supportive of any difficulties they’re going through, and be willing to work together to overcome them.
Things are never equal or balanced in terms of finances in a relationship, but you have to find a balance where you’re both happy.
This is only ever going to be possible if you talk openly about your money and finances and are willing to support your partner – emotionally and financially!
How to Support a Partner Who Is Struggling Financially
If you’re in a relationship with a man who is struggling financially, there are a few things you can do to help him out and support him through this tough time.
1. Talk About Money
The first and most important thing you can do is talk about money.
This is not a conversation that should be had once and then forgotten about.
You need to keep the lines of communication open so that you can both understand each other’s financial situations, needs, and goals.
2. Make a Budget Together
If you’re not already on the same page financially, now is the time to get there.
Sit down together and make a budget.
Be honest about your income, debts, and expenses.
Then work together to find ways to reduce your spending and save more money.
3. Help Him Create a Plan
If your partner is struggling financially, it’s important that he has a plan.
This plan should include short-term and long-term goals.
It should also detail how he intends to get out of debt, save money, and improve his financial situation.
You can help him by providing moral support and helping him to stay on track with his plan.
4. Set Boundaries You’re Happy With
When it comes to finances, it’s important to set boundaries that you’re both comfortable with.
For example, you may want to agree on a limit for how much money you’re willing to lend or give to your partner.
You may also want to decide how involved you want to be in his financial situation.
Remember, you’re not obligated to help your partner financially if you don’t want to.
5. Seek Professional Help
If your partner is in over his head financially, it may be time to seek professional help.
There are many financial advisors and counselors who can help him get his finances in order and make a plan for the future.
Related – Tired of supporting your broke partner? Read this!
The Key Question – Is He Willing to Change His Situation?
No matter how much you love and care for your partner, dating a man who is struggling financially can be tough.
You have to be honest with yourself about whether or not you’re willing – or able – to help him through his financial difficulties.
You also have to be honest about whether or not he’s willing to change his situation.
If he’s not willing to make any changes or take any steps to improve his financial situation, then it’s up to you to decide if you’re willing to stay with him and help him through this tough time.
Only you can make that decision.
Image credits – depositphotos.com/stock-photo-young-husband-cutting-credit-card
Phil lives in England, UK, and has around 20 years experience as a professional life, career and executive coach. He started this blog to help others find and define their own self development journey. Blogging about a wide range of topics to help facilitate a better future.