Our relationship with money goes far beyond saving and spending habits. It includes how we think and feel about money, our experiences with it, and even our deepest hopes and fears.
Our My Relationship With Money worksheet presents money-related words expressing common financial experiences, emotions, and behaviors. Clients circle up to ten words that best characterize how they relate to money. Some examples include “security,” “guilt,” “status,” and “pleasure.”
After selecting the words that most resonate, clients summarize their relationship with money in one or two sentences.
This deceptively simple worksheet helps clients engage with what is often a sensitive and loaded subject. Use this resource with clients or couples who struggle with money or who could benefit from reflecting on the role money plays in their lives.
Ask clients to bring the completed worksheet to session and then talk about their answers. Some questions to consider:
- Why did you choose the words you did?
- Which emotions or memories come up during the exercise?
- What was your parents’ relationship with money?
- How is your relationship with money similar or different?
- What are some impactful experiences with money you can recall?
- What are the pros and cons of your current relationship with money?
- What, if anything, would you like to change?
This activity pairs well with our Money Beliefs & Behaviors Assessment worksheet, which offers a deeper dive into the subject.
