Add, then multiply.

mutual financial goals, and work together to resolve any conflicts that may arise.

WHEN PARTNERS DON’T SHARE THEIR FINANCIAL GOALS – OR IN SOME CASES, THEIR ACTUAL RESOURCES – THEY END UP CREATING A TWO-HEADED DRAGON THAT SHOOTS FLAMES IN OPPOSITE DIRECTIONS.

As a firefighter, you know very well the power that can come from harnessing the power of two to make one, so consider these tips to turn your partnership into a single, powerful financial dragon that will blaze a trail into a comfortable future.

1. Communicate openly: Before committing to a shared life, both partners need to be aware of each other's attitude to money, their financial goals, expenses and debt obligations. Start by having open and honest conversations about your spending habits, your hopes for the future and any questions you might have. And don’t have just one chat. Maybe pick a date for an annual update such as an anniversary.

2. Set joint financial goals: Identify and prioritize the things that matter most, such as paying off debt, saving for a down payment on a house, or building an emergency fund.

3. Divide and conquer: This is where division can be a good idea! Decide how you will divide financial responsibilities, such as bill paying and tracking spending, to ensure that both partners are involved and informed.

4. Make a budget: Create a budget that takes into account both partners' income and expenses and make a plan for allocating income and prioritizing expenses. Consider both short-term and long-term goals and be sure you’re both on board.

5. Reduce your debt: Pay off high-interest (such as credit card) debt first and do your best to avoid taking on new debt.

6. Save for emergencies: Set aside money for unexpected expenses, like job loss, an illness, a family crisis or unexpected medical bills.

7. Plan for retirement: It may seem as if it’s light years away but if you start contributing even modestly to a retirement account now, you’ll thank yourself later.

8. Review your insurance coverage: Make sure you have adequate insurance for health, life, and property to cover you both.

9. Invest together: Consider taking a course in financial planning and think about carefully investing in stocks, bonds, or real estate to build wealth over time.

10. Avoid lifestyle inflation: It’s far too easy to increase your spending as your income grows, but if you’re smart, you’ll continue to live within your means and save whatever you can.

11. Be wary of impulse purchases: Yes, you’d both love to own a boat — but is it in the financial cards this year? Avoid making impulsive purchases that could disrupt your budget and rock your long-term financial plans.

12. Get some professional advice: Talk to a financial advisor so you can develop a comprehensive financial plan to keep you on track to reach your goals. Schedule regular financial check-ins to review your progress and make adjustments as necessary.

13. Be supportive: Be supportive of each other's financial decisions and work together to make compromises when necessary.