Normalize Money Talk: Here’s How

Money touches almost every part of our lives — but for some reason, it's still one of the hardest things to talk about.
With friends, family, partners, even our kids, the subject can feel loaded, awkward, or just plain uncomfortable.
So most of us just… don’t.

But here’s the thing:
When we don't talk about money, we stay stuck.
We miss out on learning from each other.
We feel isolated in struggles that are actually really common.
And we risk bigger problems down the road — the kind that could have been prevented with one honest conversation.

Talking about money doesn’t have to be dramatic.
It doesn't have to be all spreadsheets and stress.
It can actually bring you closer to the people you care about — if you approach it the right way.

Here’s how to start.

How to talk about money with friends

You don’t have to schedule a formal "money meeting" with your friends (please don’t).
Most of the time, money is already baked into everyday conversations:
Vacations, dinners out, concerts, shopping, weddings, birthdays — it’s everywhere.

Instead of pretending it’s not, you can gently bring money into the open:

• Planning a trip? "Are we aiming for something budget-friendly or a little splurgy?"

• Booking dinner? "Is tonight more pizza-and-wine or sushi-and-cocktails?"

• Talking about work? "Are you thinking about negotiating your salary? I’ve been reading up on it."

That way, you're normalizing money conversations without putting anyone on the spot.

How to talk about money with parents

This one can feel especially tricky.
Maybe you grew up in a "we don't talk about money" house. Or maybe it’s the opposite: you were told everything about money… but from a place of fear or scarcity.

Either way, if you’re an adult now, it’s important to open the lines of communication.
Especially since you may someday have to help with their finances — or at least understand them.

A good way to start: Ask for advice.

Parents are usually more comfortable giving advice than answering direct financial questions.

You could say:

• "I'm trying to figure out my retirement savings. How did you think about that when you were my age?"

• "I'm thinking about getting life insurance. Do you have any advice on what to look for?"

Or use a neutral article or headline as an icebreaker:

• "I read this piece about how most people don't have a will. It got me thinking... have you ever worked with an attorney on that stuff?"

You’re not prying — you’re opening the door.

How to talk about money with your partner

If you’re building a life with someone, you’re also building a financial life — whether you talk about it or not.
Talking about money early (and often) isn’t just smart — it’s crucial.

But you don't have to start by swapping account balances.

Start with core values first.
What really matters to each of you?

• Security

• Freedom

• Adventure

• Generosity

• Stability

Once you know what matters most, it’s easier to talk about how money fits into that vision — and to make decisions together.

From there, you can start setting shared goals (saving for a trip, buying a house, paying off debt) and making a plan together.

And honestly?
It’s never a bad idea to bring in a neutral third party (like a financial coach) — especially if one of you tends to handle the money more than the other or if you have very different views on money.
It’s about building a partnership, not recreating outdated roles.

How to talk about money with kids

Kids pick up on way more than we realize — especially when it comes to money.

By the time they’re seven years old, most kids already have basic money habits forming.
Seven.

So it’s important to talk about money early and often — and to keep it neutral, not emotional.

Instead of "we can't afford that" (which can create fear) or "we can get whatever we want" (which can create entitlement), try explaining choices:

• "We’re choosing to save for a family trip, so we’re skipping new toys for a while."

• "Groceries are getting more expensive lately, so we’re being a little more careful with our shopping list."

Involve them in little ways, too:

• Let them help pick a grocery budget.

• Show them how online banking works.

• Let them earn a small allowance — and talk through simple choices like saving, spending, or giving.

The goal isn’t to make them worry about money — it’s to make them aware of how it works, and comfortable around it.

One more thing...

At some point, you may feel like it would be helpful to get a little extra support with your finances.
If the idea of sharing your finances with a professional feels a little nerve-wracking, you’re not alone.

It’s a lot like going to the doctor — where you might feel vulnerable being undressed in front of the doctor at first, but then you realize they’re a professional, there to help you heal, not to judge you.

Financial coaching works the same way.
It’s not about shame, blame, or lectures.
It’s about helping you find clarity with your money, building habits that grow your confidence, and feeling more empowered in every part of your financial life so that money becomes a tool for you instead of a source of stress.

If you want to learn more about financial coaching, feel free to have a peek at my website: www.questfinancialcoaching.com.
I'm here if and when you're ready to talk.