A few years ago, a family friend reached out for help, needing a place to stay temporarily. I ran this living situation by a therapist, and she gave me invaluable advice that I now share with clients.

My therapist highly advised setting boundaries from the beginning:
1. How long or how much are you willing to help?
2. What is the goal or intended outcome from receiving help?
3. Are there any rules or conditions assumed?
4. What is the plan for when the time or money is up?
5. What happens if this falls through?

Sometimes my clients feel obligated to help family members, even to the detriment of their own finances. Before putting yourself in that position, ask yourself:
1. Is the intended outcome realistic, or are they just avoiding a larger decision?
2. Is this a one-off occurrence, or a pattern of poor habits and behaviors?

If these things are not agreed upon upfront:
1. You may not even be clear on your own boundaries (until they are crossed).
2. You will inevitably feel resentment once they are crossed.

If you set proper financial boundaries up front, even if things go sideways, you'll know you helped in good faith.

Ready to stop feeling guilty about your financial boundaries and start feeling clear? Book your free clarity call at MakingMoneyIsSimple.com.

Because here's the truth: You can't pour from an empty cup, and you definitely can't build wealth from a place of resentment.