Mature men and women who are dating have many questions about money and issues related to money management.

The most frequent question I am asked by men is how to avoid always picking up the tab.

There are four easy steps to learn and follow:

Step 1:

First determine the occasions that you can imagine choosing to "pick up the tab": you invite a friend to dinner to celebrate his birthday; you take a friend or family member to lunch as a way to say thank you for checking on your house when you were away.

Step 2:

Recognize that it is important to address this issue at the time you ask someone for the date, not when you are sitting in a restaurant or standing in line for movie tickets.

Step 3:

Develop phrases that sound like you and accurately convey what you mean to say. Examples: "This is a bit awkward for me to say but, I prefer if we each pay for ourselves. How does that sound to you?" or "I am more comfortable if we each pay for ourselves. Is that all right with you?"

Step 4:

It is perfectly acceptable to say that something is too expensive for you at this time or to suggest an alternative that is more in your price range.

When it comes to money, honesty and a forthright attitude is the best policy. It is essential to

Money is on everybody’s mind anyway. Believe it or not, most people will be relieved and appreciative. If you run into the occasional person who is affronted or insulted, please, oh please let it be about them. Do not take that on as being about you.

This is a skill that you can learn. You can become fluent and comfortable talking about money. Experiment with this a few times and let me know how it is going.

Remember, only YOU can make it happen!

Copyright Dr. Jackie Black 1999-2005

If you like this article, please read more about Dr. Jackie’s relationship dating advice and help for issues and problems.

This article may be re-published with appropriate attribution to the author including name, web site, email address and telephone number.

Dr. Jackie is an internationally recognized relationship expert, educator and coach. Advice and coaching about personal relationships is Dr. Jackie's passion. Her goal is to inspire and support single men, single women and couples through the challenges and pitfalls of dating, loving and building lasting, committed relationships in today's fast-paced world. Dr. Jackie's Relationship Coaching Programs and Groups, her Blog, downloadable PodCasts and her Internet streaming radio show are jam-packed with valuable dating tips and strategies.

http://www.DrJackieBlack.com

DrJackie@DrJackieBlack.com

1.888.792.6224

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