Thank you for your spreading the word in a healthy way. Although it may be common sense all over the blackboard to some, others completely miss this lesson altogether. While I believe there are extremely rare exceptions to loaning out money, they are exactly that – rare exceptions (Disclaimer: if you’re on this page you aren’t an exception… seriously…. AND RUN!!).

I speak from experience on the receiving end of this scenario and from loving others (both genders) on the receiving end… There can be different types of people asking for money out there and different reasons why. Here are the main reasons I’ve heard (from what I consider to be the the most manipulative type): DIVORCE(S), transitioning/changing job/career, bankruptcy, health issues (themselves, past spouse, parent), etc. On the surface, some of the reasons you’ll hear will be “good” reasons – but when you dig a little deeper – you’ll see the bigger picture. For example, they’re driving a new car, bought a diamond ring during the “bankruptcy”, rent a home that’s completely not conducive to paying off debt, AND they have $ for their hobbies and travel. LOOK and TAKE NOTES – These financial problems are generally coupled with larger issues, big spending/unaffordable habits, credit card debt, student loans, and rarely (if any) savings. They MAY have at one point in their lives HAD money, but it’s the past, but they’re still talking about it.

Life happens – things happen – does someone pick you up and do your financial plan FOR YOU?! No. Does someone make you eat healthy, go to the gym, show up for your job for you? No. So, quit picking up someone elses bills, planning someone elses life. Love yourself – love the life that you can give to someone worthy enough to respect you (themselves), your (their) money, and a future together!!!