One of the major reasons for problems in marriage is the lack of shared goals. Both partners have ideas of what is important to them.  If those goals are not shared, then bad feelings can exist when one spouse puts a higher priority on a goal than another.

What can be done?

Individually write down your personals goals.  Then as a couple, discuss each others goals with the sole purpose to understand.  At this point, don’t evaluate or criticize their goals, but seek to understand.  Then as a couple, write your Family Financial Plan incorporating both family and personal goals.  Develop and prioritize family goals.  Work toward the most important goals for your family.  Then write down your other goals: starting a family, educating your children, helping them during school, and helping them during and after college.  Other goals may be charitable giving, owning a business, saving for a big purchase (a car, a trip to China, etc) or for recreation and vacations.

Remember to always keep your priorities in order.  Pay the Lord first--honest tithing and generous offerings.  Pay yourself second through savings and invest your money wisely.  Get out of debt and stay out of debt.  Prepare for emergencies, with cash reserves, food storage, and adequate insurance. Save for education and missions for your children and for your retirement.  Allocate funds wisely for other personal and financial goals.