We like to think our friendships are strong enough to handle something as silly as financial differences.
Heres how to handle the most common issues that can arise.
In fact, theres a even aFriendsepisode dedicated to this problem!
On the show, Monica gets fired and everyone forgets about the issue.
Hopefully you fare better.
Communication is a better solution.
Theres really nothing wrong with flat out saying, I cant afford it, sorry.
Suggest a frugal alternative: Le Cigare Volant is really pricey, and Im on a budget.
Do you mind if we meet for happy hour at The Counter instead?
That means I need to cut back on my spending.
This vacation isnt in my budget.
When your friend wants to go to an expensive concert, youre probably tempted to go, too!
Either way, youve put your finances first.
Discuss your goals: It might help to let your friend in on your financial goals.
If these outings catch you by surprise, you might consider working them into your budget.
For example, my significant other and I have friends that really enjoy going out to eat.
In fact, now, we pretty much only go out to eat when our friends are involved.
Theyre just additional fixes for finding a happy medium.
Of course, doing this too often can be problematic, too.
Your friend might feel like its charity.
Overall, its just about being understanding toward a friends situation.
In general, its probably best to follow this rule of thumb: dont do it.
Setting a concrete deadline eliminates a lot of confusion down the line.
Both parties know what to expect when there are set rules for payback established.
double-check youre comfortable with that before saying yes.
Or, maybe theres something they can offer in exchange.
Maybe theyve got awesome photography skills and you need a few photos for your website.
Tell them youre happy to give them some cash if they can help you out with that.
Of course, working together can cause a whole mess of problems, too.
So you might want to prepare for that and not expect too much out of the situation.
And if you say no, you shouldnt have to explain yourself; politely declining should be enough.
Its certainly understandable in this economy that people cant throw money around.
you’re able to offer to support them in other ways, too.
If they need a job, perhaps you could look over their resume.
And that can be annoying.
Im not actually looking for advice.
She adds that you might also considerhowyoure conversing with them.
Maybe theyre just trying to connect, because you vent about your financial situation with them quite a bit.
Cant Afford an Expensive Wedding?
The best answer is really the most obvious one: just be honest.
But this year has been tough for me financially, and I dont think I can swing this.
I hope youll understand.
Maybe its help with planning.
Maybe its dinner after the honeymoon.
Whatever the scenario, this lets them know you still want to celebrate.
Its your wedding day, but you want your friends to be a part of it, too.
Beyond that option,event site Gathering Guide suggestsoffering to buy some stuff yourself.
Money can cause problems in even the tightest of friendships.
The good news is: basic communication, openness, and empathy can make all the difference.
And in solid friendships, those are skills you learn to develop anyway.
