For Friends or Money?

Robin Chacko is a media professional with a reputation of having a large heart and a generous pocket.

Robin's roommate Sanjay Sharma borrowed Rs. 5000 and promised to return it within a week. The week extended to a couple more and then into months.

Robin says, "I never ever thought of asking Sanjay for the amount because I just assumed that he would return it to me. One day however he just packed up and left with his luggage and my money. I have not heard from him since."

Dr. Rao Says: Ask About the Money

Some people think that if they ask for their money the friendship will be affected, but remember that even if you don't talk about it your friendship will be affected.

You will end up feeling bitter and used and this will definitely affect your friendship. So it is always better to talk about it.

To Return or Not to Return?

Advertising executive Om Prakash Singh lent his friend Rakesh Mehra Rs. 10, 000 for a month.

After a couple of months, all that Rakesh gave Om were false return dates. Om refrained from asking for his own money back and their friendship was affected because of this.

A year and a half later Rakesh gave Om only Rs. 5000 and said that it was impossible for him to return the remaining amount.

Om said, "I was so disgusted by it all that I told him to take the Rs. 5000 that he brought back." "We have not talked since."

Dr. Rao Says: Write it Down

When it comes to money it is always better to have the details written down on paper. This way everything is clear and there can be no arguments regarding the amount.

In case your friend is not returning the amount borrowed, you must ask her for it repeatedly. Give her gentle reminders about the money and persuade her into returning it.

If she has a problem giving the amount suggest that she give it back in instalments.