3. Lending Money to Someone

Issue: Even if that someone is a friend of yours, it’s not a very good idea to lend money. As a rule, this kind of “favors” ruins friendships and relationships. This is especially painful if the money is used unwisely.

Solution: You might notice that the next day you lent the money to your friend, she appeared with a new handbag that cost just the sum of money you gave her. Hold your horses and do not make any conclusions. After all, the handbag might have been given as a gift. Right? If your friend has missed a payment once, you should remind the person that you need the money back. Express your concern in a polite manner but do not pretend that you do not notice anything or that you do not mind being ignored. Lending obliges your friend. You are not a charity organization and even close people should be understanding enough to realize that you want both sides to follow some certain rules that this financial transaction consists of.

4. Paying for Advice

Issue: If you know someone whose profession is related to law, design, healthcare or education and they give you advice because you asked for their opinion, be thankful and appreciate it.

Solution: Do not take anything for granted. Even if the person is not expecting anything, you should ask how much you are charged for the service. Demonstrate that you understand that this is the person’s profession and that you are not a dishonest individual using someone for your own good. If the person does not want to take money, then the problem is resolved. But do not think that people are supposed to work for free. Do not wait for people to remind you that they take money for what they do. You can also express your gratitude and appreciation in different ways and money is not the only way to do so. Offer the person a certificate to their favorite spa, invite them to a restaurant or give them a nice present.