One way or another, you probably learned some important lessons about money as you grew up. Some things you learned from your parents (and possibly grandparents). They probably tried to teach you the things they believed were important. You may have learned other things about money (good or bad) by observing your family and others. If you were lucky you may have taken a class in high school that included a few lessons on money management. Regardless, your financial literacy is likely to have some gaps. Perhaps, you know you still have a lot to learn before you can manage your money with confidence.

A recent survey by the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) found that 65 percent of people say their mother is intimidated by money, views managing money as a necessary evil, or has never managed money. About 730 people responded to the poll on the NFCC’s website, http://www.debtadvice.org/. Just 35 percent of those surveyed agreed their mother is “pretty savvy managing money, and enjoys it,” according to the poll. A survey regarding dad’s financial savvy might well have received similar responses from many of us. Continue reading →