giving financial tips

[Gailete]

I've always known: There is no such thing as a free lunch! You have that firmly in your head, it helps you to be able to say no to opportunities that will cost you whether financially, emotionally, physically, etc. Of course none of us get it right all the time and for some things we do need people to help us.

I have seen an excellent example of someone doing something for absolutely no payback. A lady from my church comes over every month or so to help me with housework or grocery shopping. Doesn't want a thing for it. Her hubby is a doctor that has had to go on disability in the last couple of years, but apparently even while working he bought his suits at the Salvation Army. Obviously a frugal thing so as to save money for the more important things. They have lived their lives in such a way that they are able to go on medical missions all over the world sometimes several times a year. They are a couple that are truly dedicated to helping others and a genuine inspiration. I think that is why I get shivers when I see people that make so much money using all that money for their own fun and pleasure and never thinking about others or the debt load they are picking up.

[scfr]

OP - I haven't taken the time to read the entire thread, just your original post, but if I were in your shoes I'd just say to my friend that I was sorry and that I was out of line and should not have said anything. I'd only speak up about a friend's spending if they asked for my advice, if they were asking me for money, or if I felt there were a serious issue that needed medical attention like a manic spending spree.

I agree with you that your friend's spending seems ridiculous, but I'd mind my own business.

[LivingAlmostLarge]

I shut my mouth except for a couple of things. Like what? I chose to not spend $200/night on a hotel. $2k/week in vermont for housing is ridiculous to me (not to many people). I think a car payment is only okay if you can outright afford it but finance it because the interest is low or 0%.

I think that expecting an inheritance is poor financial planning. And it's ridiculous to not know you budget. And grossing $500 more a month than childcare you are likely to be paying to work.