My level of worry about money scores a 0. Why? I have never tried to keep up with the Joneses (or anyone else) and feel no need to have a lavish lifestyle to be accepted, happy, or comfortable. Peace of mind is better than anything we could own.
Susan Schumacher
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

I’m a single woman in my mid-40s, and I know that I, and I alone, am responsible for my bills, mortgage, health care, and retirement. Prices keep going up while wages don’t, and this can all be overwhelming. I would give it a 10.
Carole Donnelly
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

I don’t worry about money. I worry about the lack of it. I’m a 10. Notwithstanding what they say about love, it’s money that makes the world go around. The lack of it makes you stand still and worry.
Joseph Milano
Ossining, New York

I think that the scale changes as life changes. As an at-home mother who had given up her job as a teacher to raise the children, my worry was always at a 10. Now, blessed with a steady income (I’m back to teaching full-time), it is probably at a 4.
Diane Hyzy
Kenmore, New York

Twelve. I stress, worry, panic, fret, and freak out over money. Because while I insist that I’m an experienced budgeter, I’m really a fake. Case in point: I’m good at staying within budget for things like, oh, the electric bill, but when it comes to groceries (African horned cucumbers? I’ll take five) or a new gadget for my kitchen (collapsible colander? Get out!), I have no self-control. Then, before I know it, my budget is shot and I’m stressed to the max. It’s a vicious cycle.
Melanie Gunnell
Logah, Utah

Nine and a half. No matter how well my career is progressing, I’m always waiting for that next raise or next promotion. I also daydream frequently about winning the lottery.
Meredith Chamberlin
Glen Burnie, Maryland

I would have to say 9. Considering that my husband and I are still trying to figure out how to stick to a budget, save for retirement, save for a car, and manage all the expenses in between, it’s a worrisome topic.
Angelica Glover
Austin, Texas