Understand your money language

Misinterpreting our money styles can be as restrictive and uncomfortable as an ill-fitting bra! And you don’t need us to tell you how good a properly fitted bra feels. 

Figuring out your money style is not about putting yourself in a box. Knowing your style can help you have more honest conversations (including with yourself), tweak what’s not working, and feel more in control of financial decisions. 

Read on to see what resonates, own it, and learn how to make it work for you. 

You’re likely to be money motivated and confident in your financial decisions, no matter your income. That said, you could be more inclined to spend big than save for the sake of it, which means your emergency fund may not always be front of mind. 

Does this sound like you? 

• You prioritise lifestyle and enjoyment over saving 

• You may have savings, but no consistent plan to grow them 

• You trust things will work out  

• You are comfortable using options like buy-now/pay-later, without a clear repayment plan 

• Future planning takes a back seat to what is happening now 

Harness your power:  

• Check your bank balance regularly so spending stays visible 

• Set one simple savings goal to build momentum 

• Create light structure over restrictive budgets, for example a weekly spending limit 

• Start a small emergency fund so you are not caught off guard 

• Check your super and make sure your employer contributions are being paid correctly  

You’ve already got the confidence. A little structure can go a long way to make sure your money is working for your future, not just the present.  

You’re financially optimistic and tend to believe things will work out. You also think about the future and want to take action, but can be slow to get started. 

Does this sound like you? 

• You feel confident things will improve financially over time 

• You think things through, but don’t always follow up with action 

• You’re not too stressed about your current financial situation (or can put it aside for later) 

• Planning and saving can slip down your priority list 

Harness your power:  

• Turn intention into action by setting up one automated system (like savings) 

• Set a short term goal to build momentum 

• Get clear on what’s coming in and going out 

• Check if you have more than one super account – consider consolidation which can help you save on fees 

You’ve got the mindset to take small consistent actions that will help turn optimism into real progress.  

You’re cautious and thoughtful with money, which may mean sticking to strategies you understand and trust. Big decisions can feel tough and you can find yourself caught between being playing it safe and going off track. You’d like to improve how you feel about money.  

Does this sound like you? 

• You prefer low-risk options and like to feel in control 

• You can swing between being very cautious and then making reactive decisions 

• You worry about money and fear making the wrong move  

• You’ve bookmarked money articles and podcasts to try and feel more confident 

Harness your power:  

• Use your research to support decisions and build knowledge – focus on a specific area where you want to improve or grow  

• Set a clear plan so you’re not reacting in the moment 

• Start small when trying new strategies  

• Focus on consistency over perfection 

• Review your super investment options, and seek help if you need it 

You’ve got awareness and you can use this to your advantage to build consistency and help you stay steady. Aligning your money goals and your personal values could help you to stay on track.   

Your emergency fund is glowing, and so are you! You have already automated your cash-stashing systems and it’s likely that you’re adding to your super fund and preparing for the future. All this savviness could mean you’re skipping the odd treat here and there, but you’re focused on growing your money over time. 

Does this sound like you?   

• You consistently save  

• You track your spending and stick to a plan 

• You’ve built (or are close to) a solid emergency fund 

• You occasionally splurge (and probably feel guilty afterwards) 

Harness your power:  

• Create a plan that includes guilt-free spending  

• Look for ways to grow your money, not just store it 

• Set goals that balance short term enjoyment and long-term security 

• Review your super investments and contributions, especially when financial circumstances change 

• You’ve got the structure. The next step is making sure your money is working harder for you, not just sitting still.   

You’re saving, you’re learning, you’re growing! You’re focused on the future and making the most of financial tools and opportunities to grow your knowledge and wealth. Building a great future looks awesome on you, but don’t forget to live in the present sometimes, too.  

Does this sound like you? 

• You prioritise long-term goals and plan your spending 

• You actively look for ways to grow, optimise and manage your money 

• You understand how super fits into your bigger plan 

• You regularly engage with financial tools and check in on your budget 

• Asking for a discount or deal comes naturally to you  

Harness your power:  

• Adjust your plan as life changes, don’t rely on default settings 

• Optimise your super with strategies like salary sacrifice – understand limits and rules 

• Balance future planning with enjoying the present 

• Make space to spend on people and experiences that matter 

You’re doing all the right things. Don’t get too caught up in making sure your vision for the future is on track without enjoying the present. 

No matter your style, how you talk about money matters. 

Being open about your goals, sharing what you’re learning, and having honest conversations can make money feel less overwhelming.  

You’re in the driving seat when it comes to your money goals! If aiming high feels good, you may want to lean into this and aim for the sky. Balancing your money-related ambitions with your general life goals could be the key to self-fulfillment. It’s easy to compare yourself or put pressure on hitting milestones. Your money needs to work for you – try to find balance between the present and the future. 

Taking goals to close friends can help you stay on track, and can be a good first step to feeling more confident talking about money. Removing that taboo with a couple of people close to you, or seeking financial advice, are good choices to build on your money language and money chat skills.