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I wasn’t a Cub Scout for very long, maybe two weeks. But I do remember the Scout motto: "Be prepared." I think maybe they should change the motto, though, to "Be prepared … as much as you can."

I’m all about being prepared, maybe to a fault. I like to think about what might happen in my family and financial life, then consider what I might do. I think it’s important for a couple to think about the future, about what might happen, then consider options.

A year ago, our car was on the fritz. We talked about what we would do in case it died (luckily, it survived long enough for us to sell it). We also discuss scenarios like "What if one of us loses our job"? … "What if we came into some money (like a bigger-than-expected tax return?" … and "What if the dishwasher goes out?"

We all know communication is key to a marriage, but it’s also incredibly important to a healthy financial life. Being prepared for what might come your way – either good or bad – helps you deal with a situation when it comes up … and you don’t have to make rash decisions.

These conversations don’t have to take long … just pour a couple of cups of coffee and start chatting. You’ll feel better about your future and more prepared for what might happen.

Of course, you can’t prepare for everything … which is why the Boy Scouts need to adjust their motto.