We all have periods of time where we struggle for one reason or another. Sometimes we struggle with our jobs or our families and things can get very frustrating. A very frustrating situation is when you are struggling financially or you have a friend that is in this situation. Maybe they are going through a job loss or a major medical illness. It can be hard to figure out what to say or do to help your friend. Despite this, there are a few things that can help in this difficult time:
Lend an Ear
One of the best things to do for a struggling friend is to let them know that you care. Give them a shoulder to cry on if necessary. Do not push your friend to talk if they are not willing. There are times when just letting the person know you are there is enough. If your friend does not want to talk, make sure to check in at times to make sure they are okay. Believe me, this can make a world of difference and it shows that you care about what is happening.
Offer to Cook a Meal
Sometimes the most simple of actions can really show that you care. Offering to cook dinner for someone you love who is struggling financially can really help them out. It would give them one less thing to worry about and everyone loves a home cooked meal. Spending time with them while you cook is an added bonus so they feel less isolated. Perhaps you can even share the meal. There is no greater feeling than breaking bread with friends, and this can be a great way to help a friend.
Keep Them Laughing
Humor has been known to do wonders for people who are feeling down. It may be time to unleash your inner comedian and let the jokes fly. When someone is struggling financially, then the last thing they want to do is smile. Keeping the lines of communication open and keeping things light can really lift the mood. It can give your friend hope, which is something people always need.
Be Careful if Lending Money
It may be really tempting to open your wallet and help a friend by giving him or her cash. Your friend may really need money but only do this if you can afford to lose the money. This will ensure that if the money is not paid, then there is no damage to the relationship. If you can, it may also be wise to help your friend with babysitting if they have kids or even pet sit if they have pets. Providing a needed service for your friend can help just as much as money and can strengthen your friendship considerably. Remember to consider you own financial situation before lending also.
Life can really slap you in the face times and we all need a little help sometimes. Helping someone can really be one of the most rewarding things you can do for someone.? Remember that having that support is monumental during times of great struggle. It can really mean the difference between floundering terribly and being able to pick yourself up again.
This is a guest post by?Natalie over at?Everything Finance.? Everything Finance is a site about just that, everything related to finance.? You can get information about investing,?saving money, insurance, shopping, blogging, and making money online.
Getting free advice and financial help has never been easier though it may not solve all your problems. Emotional attachment mixed up with money has a synergistic negative impact. Thus, the resulting problem will be a more potent bomb that will ignite war.
The last thing you should do is lend them money. I think the best way to help is by offering advice and keeping them positive and working together to find a way forward.