A recent reader, who goes by the name “Benefits Negotiator,” sought advice from advice columnist R. Eric Thomas on a complex friendship situation. The reader has a longtime friend with benefits who is offering financial stability in exchange for certain services, which the reader is no longer comfortable providing. The friend has proposed that the reader move in with him to improve their financial situation, but the reader is hesitant due to the exchange of services involved.
Thomas advises the reader to carefully consider the implications of moving in with this friend, as the relationship has become transactional and may lead to further complications. He suggests that the reader evaluate whether this friendship is truly beneficial and questions whether the friend should be helping without expecting something in return. Thomas recommends maintaining separate households and benefits plans for now to preserve the integrity of their relationship.
Readers are encouraged to send their own questions to R. Eric Thomas for advice, and to follow him on Instagram or sign up for his weekly newsletter for more insights. This column was provided by Tribune Content Agency, LLC in 2024.
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