It’s your choice if you want to lend money to a friend, but make sure that’s the extent of your role in their finances. Just because you’ve given them some money doesn’t mean they think that you should have any say in how they spend it. Giving is giving. So if that matters to you, you need to tell them that there are strings attached. It’s important to have your expectations made clear so that the other person can understand the bargain they’re striking.

Be sure to confirm plans. You rack up bonus points for thoughtfulness, build anticipation for the fun to come, and are much less likely to find yourself in the wrong place at the wrong time!

Are you feeling more like hanging out with friends online, or are you more focused in on your partner? A little of both might be the way to go. Catch up with your friends, then join your significant other for a candlelit dinner.

You’re dreaming big. You can’t even afford to eat in a foreign restaurant right now, but that shouldn’t stop you from daydreaming about traveling to distant shores. Let yourself, and enjoy.