There are usually limits on family helping family, especially when finances are involved.

So long as you have an otherwise decent relationship, it is not unreasonable to expect that close relatives will want to assist you when you end up in a difficult spot. However, it is usually sensible to have a limit on that generosity—when it goes beyond a certain point, there is every chance that it will come back to bite you.

It can be very difficult to say no and put up boundaries when it comes to those closest to us, but it is often a necessity. There are only certain circumstances where taking without giving back is acceptable; otherwise, the recipient is likely to drag other people down with them. Being kind is important with those that you love, but sometimes the best kindness is saying no. The situations that can arise when you don’t are enough to make anybody have regrets.