Walking the Tightrope

Chapter 3. A Blueprint for Financial Balance

Psychologists have always said that public speaking is the most universal fear. We're not so convinced. In fact, few situations can get the heart racing, the stomach knotting, or the palms sweating like financial trouble. A good many of us stick our heads in the sand like an ostrich when we get into hot water with money. The bills start to pile up—first on the kitchen counter and later in a box in the back of a closet. When the collection agencies start calling you at all hours, you're grateful to have Caller ID.

A marriage can disintegrate under financial strain. In fact, studies indicate that financial disagreement is one of the leading causes of marital problems. Who can relax and enjoy one another ...