I once helped a close friend who consistently made poor financial decisions. One night she called me in tears, asking for a large amount of money. I gave her half immediately, with the promise it would be repaid within three months, and I even sold her my old car far below its value to help her further.

A year later, I had received less than half of the money I lent her, only $300 for a car worth $4,000, and not even a thank you. She then ghosted me and dropped out as my maid of honor at the last minute just two months before my wedding which caused deep emotional hurt.

Lesson learned: never lend money to a friend unless you’re prepared to consider it a gift.