The problem with 'mates rates'

I want my mates to do well.

• Paying friends their standard rates is a way to support their livelihood.

• I prefer to either pay full commercial rates, or do a small favour.

• Trading time can be tricky as we may have different rates, availability or needs. I don’t like building up debt or credit with mates - either way is not ideal.

• It also goes some way towards avoiding potential imbalance and resentment.

• Being honest about ‘this is my livelihood’ helps.

• It is different for the self-employed, compared to employed or retired people, to offer their professional services freely