I am feeling very troubled.
Whenever my clique and I are eating out, there is always someone in the group who always have less than $10 in her bank account and cash altogether (we are all in our 20s).
However, she will still always suggest we have meals together, and during payment, she would look to any of us to help her pay her share as she does not have enough. I would always end up being the soft one who will pay for the meals or drinks that she ordered.
It is not the first time, and I am sure it will not be the last either. I am not sure what to do, as I do not want to be deemed as the stingy one since a meal only costs less than $10.
I am also not sure if is it because she knows I will always pay for her, and she always does not even have more than $5 in her bank whenever we are ready for payment at the counter.
Please advise me on what to do as I do not want to lose a friendship over money.
Here are what netizens think:
- It’s understandable that you feel troubled by this situation. However, it’s important to set boundaries for yourself and your finances so that you don’t end up feeling taken advantage of.
- Have an honest conversation with your friend: Let her know that you are happy to spend time with her, but you are feeling uncomfortable paying for her meals every time you go out. It’s possible that she is not aware of how her actions are affecting you and may be willing to make adjustments.
- Darling. Just ask straight to the face. If it’s too often, everyone will eventually get sick of it. Ask straight and ask openly.
- Like you said, it’s only $10. You just need to decide whether this friendship is worth more than $10? Or you can just find excuses to avoid eating out with her if it really bothers you? There are actually simple answers to many problems in life. Cheers.