This piece is part of my 2016–2026 archive migration. Some original formatting, content, and external links may be missing, changed, or not be optimized.
Never allow someone or a situation to negatively affect your money
Getting stuck with a once shared rent or mortgage payment.
Your business partner backing out of a business deal you two share.
Your employer lets you go even though you’re consistently performing.
A couple living together in a one-income household that is now separating.
Cosigning a lease for someone who doesn’t end up meeting their financial obligations.
You could be blindsided by a partner, roommate, friend, employer, or your own family. What you don’t want is to be unprepared because someone decides to make a new decision that affects you financially.
10 Actions To Avoid Being Financially Blindsided:
1. Establish a 6–24 month emergency fund – depending on how stable your income is. At a minimum, have a six-month emergency fund and a second income source.
2. Ensure you can afford your lifestyle without having another person contribute.
3. Only get a roommate to save more money, not to inflate your lifestyle. Since they have another person to split their expenses with, many people feel they can now afford to buy things outside of their regular budget.
4. Always maintain more than one income source. An extra source of income provides a buffer from inconveniences and financial losses.
5. Keep your expenses low so you don’t have to adjust anything if you lose access to someone else’s income. Whether you live with someone or alone, live within your means. It is easier said than done, but it will save you a sh*tload of financial trouble.
6. A woman was kicked out of the home she lived at with her husband. Her name wasn’t on the house. She didn’t have any savings. She gave up some of her own career dreams for her husband. Ultimately, she didn’t have anything of her own because she relied 100% on her husband.
She learned a valuable lesson after that. Never again would she be financially dependent on anyone. She took charge of her life and started focusing on her career, and was eventually able to buy her first home with only her money.
7. If you can’t afford to live alone, live with family or a trustworthy person that will allow you to live with them for free or at a significant discount, then, once you’re on your feet.
8. Have your own accounts. Even if you’re in a trustworthy relationship with someone, have your own accounts in case of a rainy day.
9. Use contracts and lawyers when it comes to business and agreements. Ensure consequences are in the contract for when others try to relieve themselves of their financial responsibilities
10. Always consider yourself, your financial needs, and your financial future. Think about how your decisions now could affect you down the line. Many people end up financially unprepared because they don’t consider themselves enough.
This content is for informational purposes only — not professional advice. Consult a qualified professional before making any major decisions.