I used to think asking for help with bills was a sign I'd failed

My car's transmission went out completely on my way home from work two days ago. The repair quote is $2,800, which I just don't have right now. I was panicking, trying to figure out which credit card to max out, when my partner just said, 'Let's call your parents and see if they can float us a loan.' I always saw that as admitting I couldn't handle my own life. But we called, laid out the numbers, and they were happy to help with a clear payback plan. It didn't feel like a failure, it just felt like... family. Has anyone else had to get over that pride block about money stuff?

3 comments

3 Comments

the_sam1mo ago

My uncle loaned me $500 in 2012 and still brings it up at holidays, so I get the hesitation. Sometimes that help comes with strings that never get cut, unlike what rileyellis described.

rileyellis1mo ago

My dad covered my rent for three months after I got laid off. I was ready to live in my car before asking. That kind of pride is just stupid, expensive pride.

thomas.tyler1mo ago

Yeah, "stupid, expensive pride" is the perfect way to put it. It makes you pay a way higher price just to avoid feeling like you need help.