If they’re in the position to do so, a good friend wouldn’t mind covering drinks or paying for lunch. But there is a fine line between helping a friend out during tough times and just straight up being taken advantage of. This is known as “brokefishing.”
“Refinery29” describes brokefishing as “the act of positioning oneself as needing financial help when that isn't necessarily the case. There are usually two kinds of people that brokefish:
- Those who are a little too good at budgeting, to the extent that they let their friends who aren't great with money cover them.
- Those who are reckless with their money and rely on their friends to bail them out.
Ring any bells? Here’s how to stop getting brokefished by your free-loading friends.
- Set Boundaries. Friends, roommates, family members should never make you feel like you have to cover their cost of living. No matter how close you are to this person it’s important to set boundaries.
- Try to understand them. Maybe they grew up dealing with financial hardships which affect them to this day… or maybe they just genuinely believe that others around them are just more financially stable. Most brokefishers though have a relatively liveable income.
- Talk it out. Conversations about money can be awkward so be careful with your words. However, if they truly care about you they should be willing to hear you hear out.
- Do not offer. We know, this is is easier said than done. Don’t fall for any brokefish bait and don’t feel the need to explain why you won’t pay.
- Look inward. Covering others’ costs could be a sign you’re a people-pleaser and your “friend” could be taking advantage of you for it.
Source: Refinery29
Photo: Getty Images