There are 6 ‘money personalities’—find out yours to be happier and richer in 2026
The new year is the perfect time to think about your financial habits and make small changes that can have a big impact.
For over a decade, I have worked with clients navigating life transitions such as divorce and retirement to help them create their new financial path. In my experience, there are six money personalities that represent the ways people’s beliefs and attitudes about money are reflected in daily life.
Here’s my best money advice for every personality heading into 2026:
1. Transmitter
The giver has a heart of gold and a generous spirit. Whether helping a friend in need, contributing to a worthy cause, or helping a stranger down on their luck, the Giver is always there. However, this can lead to: overspending, neglected personal financial needs, and even feelings of resentment.
My best money advice for 2026
The key for the giver is to find balance. With careful planning and increased awareness of when to say no, you can continue to support others without jeopardizing your finances.
When you find yourself in a difficult situation, remember that there are many ways to refill other people’s glasses, as well as your own, that don’t cost a dime. In fact, your time and talents can often make a greater impact than your treasures.
2. Pioneer
Pioneers don’t follow the flock, they lead it. They exude confidence and embrace considered risks. They are driven, focused and relentless in their pursuit of success. But here’s the kicker: Their fierce independence can lead to burnout and reluctance to do the job. ask for help.
My best money advice for 2026
While a Pioneer may be successful in creating wealth, managing it requires a much different skill set. It is important to learn how to delegate. By recognizing your limitations and leveraging the expertise of others, you can maximize the potential of your hard-earned money. This will ultimately reduce stress and increase your overall financial success, allowing you to enjoy the fruits of your labor.
3. Skeptical
Money? No, this is for fat cats and money collectors. The skeptic’s insecurity can hinder their financial progress. They often feel stuck between believing they don’t deserve wealth and panicking at the thought of going after it. Conclusion? They continue to repeat behaviors that abandon them feeling financially insecure.
My best money advice for 2026
Writing down all your positive qualities can help you see that your value isn’t tied to your bank account. Surround yourself with financially successful people who are also kind and generous to help reshape your views on money. Witnessing how wealth can be used for good can help dispel the assumption that it inherently breeds greed.
4. High Roles
High Gainers live for the moment! Fancy things enlighten them. Saving for the future? Not really. Their emotions can lead to impulsive purchases and they can easily lose track of their spending; This can result in a pile of debt. This constant pursuit of pleasure can leave the High Roller feeling empty inside.
My best money advice for 2026
Exploring how you cope with emotions such as boredom or anxiety can help you reduce impulse buying. Budgeting apps or spending trackers can help develop self-awareness about spending habits, along with thoughtful discussions about the relationship between self-worth and material things. Switching to a cash-only system can also be a powerful tool for you; It can limit your ability to rely on credit cards when you want to splurge.
5. Penny Pincher
Penny Pincher is a constant saver, no matter how much money she has in the bank. They are disciplined and resourceful when it comes to spending (which is a good thing!) and often feel guilty after making a purchase – even if it’s an obligation. They are typically debt and risk averse and fearful of losing everything, which can cause them to miss opportunities to effectively increase their wealth or benefit from valuable experiences.
My best money advice for 2026
Learning the basics of investing can empower the Penny Pincher to take calculated risks. Setting specific spending goals (e.g. Going on a dream vacation or planning fun nights out with friends can help you shift your focus from the things you might lose to the things your money can help you gain and experience. This approach can build trust and create a more balanced perspective.
6. Avoidant
The avoidant person prefers not to think about money, let alone talk about it. They often have no idea where they stand financially. And frankly, most people don’t know where to start. However, the more they avoid the situation they are in, the more anxious they become.
My best money advice for 2026
Even the smallest actions can trigger change. Taking just 10 minutes each week to review your account balances, research your expenses, or ask for help can help you face your finances with less stress. Also looking for resources such as online articles, podcasts, or financial literacy classes can help you take actionable steps to improve your financial well-being.
keep in mind
These are not reductive labels, but lenses that raise awareness about your current habits. To remember:
- These are not rigid categories. Your money behaviors may also change over time as life experiences shape new financial habits.
- Growth is always possible. Recognizing your tendencies allows you to make conscious changes and develop healthier behaviors.
- It is typical to identify with more than one genre. It is common to exhibit characteristics of more than one personality type.
And of course, you may want to receive personalized financial advice tailored to your specific needs.
Steph Wagner She is a nationally recognized thought leader on women’s wealth and financial empowerment, serving as National Director of Women and Wealth at Northern Trust. He is the author of the following book:Fly! One Woman’s Guide to Financial Freedom and Building a Life You Love.” For more information: stephlwagner.com.
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