“Money Nerd” Cardinal Sins

Sometimes differences in marriage can lead to conflict.  Different styles, preferences, interests, and personalities are just a few examples.  If we are honest enough we will admit that there are things that our spouse does better than we do.  When it comes to the details of your finances, who crafts the plan?  Which one of you seems better suited to manage the finances for your family?  The sooner you recognize each other's strengths, the sooner your money issues will begin to smooth out.  Who is (to use Dave Ramsey lingo) the money 'nerd' in your marriage?  How do you communicate with the non-nerd?  Are money talks always open game or are there some times that work better than others?  How much input does the 'non-nerd' have in financial situations? A lot? A little? Below are some cardinal sins the "nerd" need not commit.

• Don't make unilateral decisions.  Money decisions in marriage are best made in unison.  Both spouses need involvement on financial issues.  If you both desire some independent decisions, then agree on how much you can spend without needing to consult with each other.
• Don't 'talk down' to the non-nerd.  You won't be married long before the 'tone' of conversations becomes important.  You become very in tune with how you speak to each other.  If your partner perceives that you are talking down to them, t's time to drop back and regroup.  You can decide to discuss the issue later when emotions are not running so high.
• Don't be inflexible.  Things will not always work as planned.  Your plan will go awry from time to time.  Recognize this fact right out of the gate.  Sometimes you can lose the battle but win the war (does this make sense?).  If the two of you are $25 away from agreement, go ahead and concede. 
• Don't finalize the budget without discussing the month with your spouse.  Each month has its own set of events.  Discussing the upcoming events is proactive and can provide valuable information to strengthen the budget.

Is there a money nerd in your marriage? If so, what practices do you use to ensure agreement on money decisions?