This article is your guide to becoming a #SheTalksMoney boss. We'll explore the reasons why women sometimes shy away from financial conversations, and equip you with the tools and knowledge to have those conversations with power and purpose. Get ready to unlock your financial potential and take control of your future!

It's no secret that money is a sensitive and often taboo topic, especially in the context of romantic relationships. But did you know that when it comes to couples, women tend to be far less likely to openly discuss financial matters than their male partners? This "money silence" can have serious implications, leading to strained relationships, financial insecurity, and missed opportunities for growth and collaboration.

So why do so many women find it so difficult to broach the subject of money with their significant others? And more importantly, how can we work to break this pattern and foster healthier, more empowered financial conversations between partners?

   1. Childhood trauma or a diminished education

The roots of the problem often stretch back to societal conditioning and gender norms. From a young age, many women are taught that discussing money is "unladylike" or that they should defer to men when it comes to financial decision-making. This can lead to a lack of confidence and competence around money matters, as well as a deep-seated fear of being judged or criticized.

Additionally, research has shown that women generally experience greater anxiety and shame around financial issues than men. This may stem from the persistent gender pay gap, the increased likelihood of women taking career breaks to care for children, or the simple fact that women tend to outlive their male partners, leaving them to navigate retirement and elder care alone.

Whatever the underlying causes, the end result is that many women find themselves feeling ill-equipped, uncomfortable, and downright intimidated when it comes to talking about money with their partners. They may worry about being perceived as "gold diggers" or "high-maintenance" if they express financial needs or concerns. Or they may shy away from the conversation altogether to avoid potential conflict or power struggles.

   2. Is it beneficial to do so?

Of course, this reluctance to discuss money can have serious consequences. When couples don't communicate openly about their financial situation, goals, and concerns, it can lead to misunderstandings, resentment, and even relationship breakdown. It can also prevent them from making strategic, collaborative decisions that maximize their joint financial well-being.

The good news is that there are steps, women (and their partners) can take to overcome this financial silence and cultivate a healthier, more empowered approach to money talk.

Steps to achieve money talk skills:

   1. Healing the core beliefs

The first step is to confront any internalized beliefs or biases you may have around women and finance. Challenge the notion that discussing money is unfeminine or inappropriate. Remind yourself that financial literacy and assertiveness are essential life skills, not undesirable traits.

It can also be helpful to increase your own financial knowledge and confidence. Take a class, read personal finance books, and make a concerted effort to understand the ins and outs of budgeting, investing, retirement planning, and more. The more empowered and informed you feel, the easier it will be to have those tough money conversations with your partner.

When it comes to actually broaching the subject, approach it with vulnerability, empathy and a spirit of collaboration. Make it clear that you're coming from a place of care and a desire to work together, not to blame or criticize. Use "I" statements to express your concerns and goals, and be open to hearing your partner's perspective as well.

You might say something like: "I know money can be a sensitive topic, but I really want us to be on the same page about our finances. I'm feeling a bit anxious about our savings and would love to sit down and review our budget together. I know we might not see eye-to-eye on everything, but I believe if we communicate openly, we can make a plan that works for both of us."

   2. Regular conversations and advice

It's also crucial to make money discussions a regular, ongoing part of your relationship, not just a one-time awkward conversation. Schedule regular "financial check-ins" to review your progress, troubleshoot challenges, and adjust your approach as needed. This will help normalize the topic and prevent it from becoming a source of tension or avoidance.

And don't be afraid to enlist the help of a neutral third party, like a financial planner or couples counselor, to facilitate these dialogues if you find them particularly difficult. Having an objective guide can take the pressure off and ensure that both partners feel heard and respected.

Ultimately, the key is to approach financial conversations with openness, compassion and a genuine commitment to your shared well-being. When you and your partner can talk about money without judgment or fear, you open the door to greater trust, intimacy and collaborative problem-solving - all of which are essential for a healthy, thriving relationship.

So ladies, I encourage you to find your financial voice. Speak up about your concerns, needs and goals. Don't be afraid to ask questions, express your perspective, and advocate for your rightful place at the household financial table.

And to the partners of these women, I urge you to create a safe, supportive environment for these crucial conversations. Be patient, be understanding, and actively work to empower your significant other to become a confident, equal financial decision-maker.

With time, practice and a lot of mutual care and respect, we can dismantle the centuries-old taboo around women and money. By embracing financial transparency and teamwork in our relationships, we can achieve greater security, autonomy and joint prosperity - not to mention a whole lot more peace of mind.

So let's get talking, ladies. Your financial future - and the health of your most important relationships - may just depend on it.