Wife would prefer husband was more closed-mouthed about finances – Berkshire Eagle
DEAR ABBY: My husband and I have been married for seven years. He provides financially for our family, while I work part-time. My husband is an “open book” when it comes to discussing our personal finances with others, while I am extremely private about this type of information.
Recently, our neighbors stopped by, and he told them what we paid for some work we had done on our house, which they did not ask to know. I was appalled that he did it, and asked him after they were gone not to tell people such private information. I’m very uncomfortable discussing our salaries with others, while he thinks it’s something for all to know.
We’re a middle-class family, and I’m by no means embarrassed by our finances, but I think it’s preferable to abstain from discussing these matters with others. He thinks it’s rude not to tell people what we pay for things and how much we make and save. Is it common practice to discuss personal finances with others?
— PRIVATE LADY IN NEW MEXICO
DEAR PRIVATE LADY: Rude?! Nowhere is it written that people “have” to discuss their finances with anyone other than one’s spouse, immediate family or CPA. Keeping quiet about financial matters is not a breach of etiquette; it’s good judgment. What your husband is doing could be perceived as bragging, which creates resentment and jealousy rather than impresses others, and anyone who reads my column knows it can drive people away.
Contact Dear Abby at DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.