Financial education programs often highlight financial literacy skills such as budgeting and managing credit card debt; however, these skills do not tap into the emotional and practical issues that cause people to react irrationally with money. Financial decisions are most often motivated by emotional need as opposed to logical knowledge. To address this concern, the Grayson County Cooperative Extension Service utilized the Money Habitudes program to emphasize the importance of developing a healthy relationship with money. Assisting an individual in discovering his or her habits and attitudes toward money, can provide insights that can change the way an individual manages his or her money, approach career and relationships, and reach life goals. 

The Grayson County Extension Office offered the in-person program “Money Habitudes.” During late September, at least 14 consumers participated. Participants of the program were representing various community organizations that work with a variety of clientele throughout the community. Partnering with the local Community Alliance, both the director and the FCS Extension Agent felt it was important for leaders within the organizations to participate in the program to better discuss and encourage their clientele participants in future programming.  

Participants were asked to complete an evaluation survey following the class. Of the 14 survey respondents, 100% indicated they learned how habits and attitudes trigger spending; 86% better know how to manage money to reach financial goals; and 79% had increased confidence in handling money issues or specific financial matters. 

Of the survey respondents, 100% indicated they plan to adjust at least one spending habit toward financial stability; 100% plan to be more aware of how money affects relationships; and 100% plan to implement at least one strategy to reduce expenses or manage money.

Respondents all agreed they were able to use the Money Habitudes solitaire to better understand their spending and saving behaviors. (All agree, and 86% “strongly agree.”) The most significant things this group plans to apply as a result of this workshop include: spending more wisely (10 respondents), saving (5 respondents), making an effort to better understand or change a habitude (5 respondents), budgeting (4 respondents), and improving communication within the family (3 respondents). Respondents also noted they will work on goals, helping the community, planning, and seeking additional financial literacy education. 

One participant said, "I will be more aware of where my money goes." 

Another said, "I will think longer before I buy big ticket items. The cards were very helpful."

Another participant said the Money Habitudes program is "very insightful - much needed in Grayson County."

As a result of this initial program, several others have been scheduled including a partnership with the high school to work with graduating Seniors. The Extension Office has also collaborated with the local Food Pantry to implement this program with clientele through a grant in 2022. 

Update, June 2022: As a direct result of participating in the Money Habitudes program, coupled with the Where Does Your Money Go Curriculum, a participant recently switched jobs to a higher paying position. The participant had never put pen to paper to figure her income vs. expenses. After creating a spending savings plan and identifying spending leaks, she successfully found a new job with higher pay and benefits to help better make ends meet and reach her financial goals.