Ratings: From your Scores above, see which style dominates your money personality. You may find that you possess some characteristics of each style, but one trait tends to dominate.

The Saver

The saver is deeply attached to her money. Her hobby is saving money, and she loves to see her bank account grow. She is also known to clip coupons, set budgets, and prioritize financial goals, although she may not be inclined to take on much risk. The Saver enjoys keeping her money safe in the bank. She often worries that she may outlive her money and end up in poverty. The Saver also has difficulty spending money on herself and her loved ones, especially on things that are not a necessity. Many Savers worry about money and feel that they will never have enough to be secure. Others channel their thrifty tendencies into always looking for the big sale. Getting a bargain makes her feel great, but finding out there was a better deal somewhere else makes her feel terrible. The Saver attempts to assert financial control of her life by focusing on details, and she is usually very apprehensive about making mistakes.

The Avoider

The avoider would rather do almost anything than to think about her money. She typically handles financial matters at the very last minute, or even late–such as failing to pay bills on time and then owing a premium. She does not like keeping financial records or a budget. She tends to be quite fearful of
making a mistake, so it is easier to do nothing.

Most avoiders feel some level of inadequacy when it comes to financial matters. They wish someone else would just take care of it. Money matters can be so complex and confusing. There can be so many details and decisions to make. It is no wonder they may not be well prepared for the future.

The Worrier

The worrier has a difficult time dealing with her finances, whether balancing her checkbook, budgeting, paying bills or investing. She is likely to engage in “robbing Peter to pay Paul” behaviors, all the while self-flagellating for doing so. The Worrier thinks constantly about money but rarely takes charge of her finances or strategizes for financial comfort.

The Worrier may feel that money is bad and has the power to corrupt. She may believe that having too much money or making a profit on investments means she is being greedy or selling out on her values. Worriers are not inclined to keep tabs on their current spending or invest for the future, and they may alienate their loved ones with their self-righteous attitude toward affluence.

The Big Spender

The Big Spender’s credit cards are her best friends. She often spends money on things she really cannot afford. The Big Spender hates to limit herself; after all, she works hard for her money and it makes her feel good to spend it!

At the same time, she may feel frustrated that she doesn’t have more. Big Spenders have a hard time budgeting, and difficulty delaying gratification in the present to save for the future. The Big Spender is also prone to fantasies of financial rescue, and fears achieving success on her own. While she waits for the miracle person or event that will solve her financial woes, the Big Spender may spend most of what she has at her disposal, or rack up a hefty amount of debt.