We all love a good deal and a helping hand, but sometimes those habits can cross the line into mooching territory.
It’s not always easy to recognise, especially when it’s become second nature. If you tend to take more than you give, here are some red flags that you might be a bit of a moocher.
1. You conveniently forget your wallet whenever you go out with friends.
Oops, you did it again! You’re out with your friends, the bill arrives, and suddenly, you realise you’ve “forgotten” your wallet. Again. While it might seem like an honest mistake once or twice, if it becomes a pattern, your friends might start to see you as a moocher. Remember, everyone has to chip in and pay their fair share.
2. You always order the most expensive item on the menu, expecting someone else to split the bill evenly.
Sure, treat yourself every now and then, but if you consistently order the lobster while your friends are having salads, it’s not exactly fair to expect them to split the bill evenly. Be mindful of the cost and try to choose something within a reasonable price range, or offer to pay the difference.
3. You’re always “borrowing” things from your friends and never returning them.
Source: Unsplash Whether it’s clothes, books, or even money, if you’re constantly borrowing things and forgetting to return them, you’re essentially taking advantage of your friends’ generosity. Make a conscious effort to return borrowed items promptly, or better yet, try to avoid borrowing altogether.
4. You always show up empty-handed to parties and potlucks.
Everyone loves a guest who brings a little something to share, whether it’s a bottle of wine, a homemade dish, or even a bag of chips. Showing up empty-handed can make you seem like a freeloader who’s only interested in taking, not contributing.
5. You never offer to pay for gas when you carpool with friends.
Gas isn’t cheap, and carpooling is a great way to save money and reduce your carbon footprint. But if you’re always the passenger and never offer to chip in for gas, you’re essentially getting a free ride (literally). Offer to pay your share of the gas, or rotate driving duties with your friends to make it fair.
6. You always “forget” to pay your friend back for that coffee or lunch.
We all forget things sometimes, but if you consistently “forget” to pay your friend back for small expenses, it can start to add up. Make a mental note to pay them back promptly, or offer to cover the next round to show your appreciation.
7. You mooch off your family’s Netflix, Spotify, or other subscription services
Sharing is caring, but constantly using your family’s streaming services without contributing can be seen as taking advantage of their generosity. Offer to pay for a month of the service, or suggest setting up a shared account where everyone chips in.
8. You’re always asking for favours but rarely offer to help people in return.
Relationships should be a two-way street, with both parties giving and receiving support. If you’re always asking for favours but rarely offer to help your friends in return, it can create an imbalance in the relationship. Try to be more proactive in offering your help and support, even if it’s just a small gesture.
9. You conveniently “lose” the itemised bill when splitting the cost of a group meal.
We’ve all been there, splitting the bill can be a headache. But if you consistently “lose” the itemised bill or suggest a flat rate that doesn’t quite add up, your friends might catch on. Be transparent about your expenses and pay your fair share, even if it means doing a little maths.
10. You always volunteer to drive, but conveniently forget to mention you’re low on gas.
Offering to drive is a nice gesture, but if you’re constantly low on gas and expect your passengers to foot the bill, it’s not exactly fair. Be upfront about your gas situation and either offer to pay for it or suggest a different transportation arrangement.
11. You always have an excuse for why you can’t chip in for group gifts or activities.
Source: Unsplash “I’m broke this month,” “I forgot my wallet,” “I’ll get you next time.” We all have financial constraints, but if you constantly come up with excuses to avoid chipping in for group gifts or activities, it can put a strain on your friendships. Be honest about your budget and suggest alternative activities that are more affordable for everyone.
12. You take advantage of free trials and never cancel them, even if you don’t use the service.
Source: Unsplash Free trials are a great way to try out a new service, but it’s important to remember to cancel them before they start charging you. If you consistently sign up for free trials and forget to cancel, you’re essentially getting a freebie at the company’s expense. Be responsible and either cancel the trial or sign up for a paid subscription if you want to continue using the service.
13. You always order extra when you get takeaway or delivery, knowing you’ll have leftovers for days.
Source: Unsplash Ordering extra food is fine, but if you’re intentionally ordering more than you can eat just to get free meals for the next few days, it’s a bit of a mooch move. Be mindful of your portions and try to order only what you’ll realistically consume.
14. You’re always the first to volunteer to stay at a friend’s place when you’re in town, but never offer to host them in return.
Staying with friends can be a fun and affordable way to travel, but it’s important to reciprocate the hospitality. If you’re always the one crashing on their couch but never offer to host them in return, it’s a one-sided arrangement. Offer to host your friends when they’re in town, or at least offer to chip in for expenses like groceries or transportation.
15. You always ask for a bite of your friend’s food, but rarely offer to share yours.
Sharing is caring, but if you’re always the one asking for a bite of your friend’s food without offering to share yours, it’s a bit selfish. Be mindful of their portion sizes and offer to share your food in return, or simply ask if you can try a bite before digging in.
16. You “forget” to bring a towel or toiletries when you stay at a friend’s place.
It’s understandable to forget something once in a while, but if you consistently “forget” to bring essentials like a towel or toiletries when staying with friends, it’s a sign of disrespect. Be prepared and bring your own supplies to avoid inconveniencing your host.
17. You always ask your friends for a ride but never offer to drive them.
Having friends who are willing to give you a ride is a blessing, but if you’re always the one asking for a lift and never offer to return the favor, it’s a bit of a mooch move. Offer to drive your friends sometimes, or at least offer to pay for gas or parking to show your appreciation.
