Reciprocity Norm
Receiving obliges returning, across every culture; gifts, favours, hospitality and free samples all create debts that are repaid, often with interest, and often to the giver's design.
An everyday example
The free consultation that makes declining the proposal feel ungrateful.
What it can cost you
Repaying manufactured gifts with real concessions; hospitality obligations shaping what you buy and serve.
Warning signs
- Saying no feels ungrateful.
- The gift arrived just before the ask.
One thing to do
Accept gifts consciously and decouple: thank, and decide on the merits. When a gift comes with an ask, name the linkage.
Is this happening to you right now?
Describe your situation and get a read across all six brains. No account needed.
Check my situationRelated
Not medical, legal or financial advice. How Decision IQ works
One decision idea a week
One useful idea. No daily drip, no pressure.