Money Shame: Why We Avoid Talking About Taxes (and How to Change That)
It’s time to stop feeling ashamed about money. Here’s how to move from fear to freedom — one conversation at a time.
The Hidden Emotion Behind Money
We’ve all been there — that uneasy feeling when someone brings up taxes, income, or budgeting. You laugh it off, change the subject, or say, “I really should get that organized.”
But beneath that reaction often lies something more profound: money shame.
Money shame is that quiet, heavy voice that says, “I should have this figured out by now,” or “Everyone else is doing better than me.” It’s what keeps us from asking for help, even when we know we need it.
And it’s far more common than you think.
A study from the Financial Wellness Center at the University of Utah found that nearly 42% of Americans say money negatively impacts their mental health, often due to guilt, fear, or embarrassment about their financial situation.
(Source: University of Utah Financial Wellness Center)
Why We Avoid Talking About Taxes
For many, tax season brings all those hidden feelings to the surface. Taxes are full of numbers, deadlines, and “should-haves.” They can make even the most capable business owner feel unprepared or overwhelmed.
Here’s what’s going on beneath the surface (based on my conversations with clients):
Fear of Judgment: You worry your financial situation says something about your worth or competence.
Cultural Silence: We’re taught that money talk is private, so we avoid it.
Perfectionism: You feel like you can’t talk about money until it’s “perfect” or “figured out.”
Avoidance: Ignoring it might make it less stressful.
But here’s the truth: not talking about money doesn’t protect you; it keeps you stuck.
The Power of Openness
When you start talking about money, something amazing happens: the shame loses its grip.
By saying, “I’m not where I want to be, but I’m working on it,” you reclaim your power.
You move from silence to strategy, from hiding to healing.
A 2021 study in Social Science & Medicine found that financial shame doesn’t just reflect financial problems; it creates them by discouraging people from seeking help or planning for the future.
(Source: ScienceDirect Journal of Behavioral Economics)
Talking about money opens the door to education, solutions, and relief.
How to Start the Conversation
Breaking money silence doesn’t mean sharing every detail with everyone. It means starting small, safely, intentionally, and without judgment.
Here’s how:
Talk to someone you trust. This first step needs confidence but builds courage.
Shift your language. Replace “I’m bad with money” with “I’m learning more about my finances.” Language creates mindset. Mindset creates motion.
Ask questions. Whether it’s your accountant, your coach, financial planner, or friend, questions can lead you down the right path of knowledge and adjustment.
Celebrate progress, not perfection. Every small step forward is a win. Opening your books, filing on time, and setting a budget are all wins.
Remember: financial vulnerability is not weakness; it’s the beginning of empowerment.
You Deserve a Judgment-Free Zone
If you’ve ever felt embarrassed about your finances, please know this: you’re not alone, and you don’t have to figure it out by yourself.
I created my “Money Without Shame” sessions for individuals like you: business owners, professionals, and families who want to gain a deeper understanding of their finances in a supportive and confidential environment.
Together, we unpack your fears, organize your finances, and replace confusion with confidence.
No judgment. No jargon. Just clarity.
Ready to Break the Silence Around Money?
Take the first step toward financial freedom.
👉 Book your “Money Without Shame” coaching session with Danielle Parks
Let’s turn your financial fears into financial freedom — one brave conversation at a time.
