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 Clinton 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 Clinton County Extension offered the program “Money Habitudes Online.” During April through June 2020, 19 consumers participated. The program was promoted through inserts in weekly Extension at Home grab and go kits as well as on the Extension Office Facebook Page. It was the first time many clientele had participated in online programming. 

Participants were asked to complete an online evaluation survey following the class. Of the 16 survey respondents, 56 percent indicated they learned how habits and attitudes trigger spending; 56 percent better know how to manage money to reach financial goals; and 56 percent had increased confidence in handling money issues or specific financial matters. 

Of the survey respondents, 94 percent indicated they plan to adjust at least one spending habit toward financial stability, 88 percent plan to be more aware of how money affects relationships, and 88 percent plan to implement at least one strategy to reduce expenses or manage money.

Up to 94 percent of respondents agreed they were able to use the Money Habitudes solitaire to better understand their spending and saving behaviors. The most significant things this group plans to apply as a result of this workshop, include:

Spending more wisely (6 respondents); making an effort to change one or more habitudes (2 respondents; saving money (2 respondents); and using money practically (1 respondent). One attendee noted, "(I learned) how my indecisive spending can be a threat to my ability to save and spend wisely, I will be more cautious in making decisions." Another said, "This was a great opportunity to learn individual strengths and weaknesses in regard to money spending in a timely manner."