11 Ways Couples Therapy Can Make You Rich

What comes to mind when you hear the word “rich”? Do you picture stacks of money, sparkling jewelry, and fast cars? Are you envisioning lavish vacations and expensive meals? Of course, being financially wealthy is one way that someone can be rich, but there is also the richness that exists in our every day life and in the joy of a meaningful relationship. In couples therapy, you and your partner can begin to build skills and explore ways to increase richness in your lives, both as individuals and as a couple. And surprisingly, you may find that what you learn in couples therapy might also translate into more money in your bank account! Here are 11 ways that couples therapy can make you rich, both inside and out.

1. You will find (new) meaning in your life. Learning how to recruit your partner to help you talk through areas where you feel stuck or about old pains or fears can add new meaning to your life and could even encourage you to make that change in your career that ends up being lucrative.

2. You will learn how to set manageable, realistic goals. In finances and in your relationship, setting yourself up for success is the best way to move forward. Couples therapy, pre and post marriage, can help you start off on the right foot.

3. You will learn to be more mindful. Increasing your ability to focus on the present moment will help you understand your relationship more and behave more adaptively. This increased awareness can also help you make thoughtful and prudent financial decisions.

4. You will learn how to listen. This skill will not only help you in your relationship, but it is an invaluable skill to have on the job and may help you move ahead in your career.

5. You will learn effective conflict resolution skills. Learning how to mange and resolve conflict will undoubtedly help your relationship with your partner, but it is also directly applicable to almost every job.

6. You will learn how to communicate effectively. As with listening and conflict resolution skills, learning how to ask for what you need not only makes your relationship better, but it can also increase the chances that you reach your career and financial goals.

7. You will learn to take smart risks. One aspect of couples therapy is learning how to evaluate when and how to risk being emotionally vulnerable with your partner. Applying this skill to your job/finances may help you know when to take those calculated risks that really pay off in the end.

8. You will avoid spending money on things that distract you from your real problems. That is good for your relationship and your bank account.

9. You will learn the value of investing in your future. Couples therapy is an investment in the future of your relationship and teaches you the same kind of patience and dedication that will help you succeed in your job and in making smart financial decisions.

10. You can explore and clarify your values. Sometimes we make choices about our life (and our finances!) without really considering if what we are doing is in alignment with our values. Being clear on what matters to you and your partner can help you both make changes that bring you greater satisfaction and success, both in your relationship and in your financial life.

11. You will grow in your love of yourself and your partner. That is priceless.