What’s a Money Date (and Why You Should Have One)
The What — What Exactly Is a Money Date?
Money dates might sound like something reserved for couples — but in reality, they’re for anyone who wants to feel more clear, confident, and empowered with their money.
Think of your money date as a recurring check-in, similar to what you’d have with a personal trainer — it keeps you centered and moves you toward your goals.
The Why — Why Bother Having a Money Date?
Money dates are powerful — they breathe life into money and give it meaning.
They help you feel calm and in control, while keeping your attention on what’s most important. They also give you space to pivot when life shifts — maybe this month calls for a little more self-care, or perhaps it’s time to tackle that home repair you’ve been putting off.
The How — The Three Components of a Great Money Date
Every money date has three components: Practical, Emotional, and Values.
If you focus only on the practical, you may find yourself repeating unconscious patterns. If you focus only on the emotional, you won’t have a clear sense of where you stand or what’s possible, and without the values piece, you may spend out of habit instead of intentionally.
1. The Practical
This is where you take action and take a real look at your numbers.
What to check:
Take stock of where you are financially.
Fix any money leaks (like a forgotten subscription).
Review your accounts and making sure nothing seems unusual.
Plan for upcoming non-monthly expenses (like holiday or birthday gifts).
2. The Emotional
This is where you explore and refine your money beliefs, patterns, and dynamics.
Ask yourself:
What emotions come up for you as you look at your money?
Are there patterns you notice are being repeated?
Are there specific triggers you’re seeing (especially if you are partnered)?
3. The Values
This is where you explore what money means to you.
Ask yourself:
Does my spending reflect what I care about most?
Am I spending out of habit or obligation?
How can I spend more on what’s important to me?
Money Dates with a Partner
If you’re partnered, you each bring different life experiences and money styles to the table — and sometimes that can create friction.
The key is to make your money conversations feel safe and blame-free. Respect each other's point of view and allow for both individual as well as joint goals. When you approach money as teammates, it strengthens trust, connection, and shared purpose.
For Solopreneurs
If you’re self-employed or have variable income, money dates are even more important. They help you stay organized, plan for slow months, and ensure both your business and personal finances stay aligned.
The Wrap-Up — Celebrate, Reflect, and Plan Ahead
Honor yourself for showing up and creating time and space to build a new relationship with your money. It’s a loving act of self-care that affects every area of your life.
Celebrate your progress and focus on what’s going right.
Do something enjoyable right after your money date.
Jot down one new topic to explore next time.
Reframe mistakes and forgive yourself.
It’s about consistency and progress, not perfection.
Want to Go Deeper?
If you’d like to better understand the emotional side of money, start by discovering your Money Personality — the unique mix of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that shape your financial decisions.
Understanding your Money Personality can help you make lasting changes and, if you are partnered, foster better communication.