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In an interview about my practice, understanding your money story and its role in your relationships and decision making, I was asked, "Which conversation should I approach with curiosity?" Without hesitation, I answered, "Every single one. The journey begins with yourself and then includes others. There is so much to learn." Until you're clear about your own narrative, all other conversations risk unsatisfactory results. The beauty of this approach is how quickly curiosity about money expands to enrich all other aspects of your life.

Our individual money stories – as unique as our fingerprints – affect our decision-making, our relationships, our peace of mind, and our clarity of purpose. Though we often treat money as merely a practical tool, it carries deep emotional significance that shapes our lives in ways we may not fully understand.

 We know that humans are complex beings and, as such, there is far more to understand about our individuality than simple categorizations allow. That complexity also exists in the money realm.  We focus on the tactical – spending, saving, taxes, planning – we rarely discuss money's emotional dimension. Yet research confirms that emotions drive our financial decisions. We make choices that profoundly affect our lives without comprehending the deeper forces at work.

Until you clearly understand your emotional relationship with money, every other money conversation - whether with a partner, family member, or financial advisor - will be limited or potentially fraught with conflict.

That's why my first piece of advice to every client is simple: "Come to the conversation curious." Curiosity must begin internally, examining your own narratives before extending outward to productive conversations with others. Opening your mind and activating your curiosity gives you the opportunity to accept that something may be your belief rather than truth, that your personal narratives may be both helping and getting in your way, and that your fears may be creating myths and barriers that hinder your goals and relationships.

Curiosity becomes the bridge that allows us to explore both the practical and emotional dimensions of our relationship with money. Without it, we remain stuck in patterns we don't understand. This is the essence of curiosity; embracing the unknown, recognizing that our stories evolve, and welcoming the transformative power of growth and change.

-Emily Scott