Don't ask: Lottery winners reveal the 12 personal unwelcome questions that drive them crazy
Winning the lottery is a dream come true for many, but with this sudden windfall comes a wave of attention, and not all of it is welcome.
Here are twelve things you might want to avoid asking or discussing with someone who's hit the jackpot, as outlined in this new video by Millionaire Post.
Don't Ask for Money:
We all may feel the pinch now and then, but asking a lottery winner for a piece of their jackpot is a definite no-no. The article recounts the tale of Billy Bob Harrell Jr., a Texan who won $31 million and generously shared his fortune with friends, family, and community. Sadly, the pressure and consequences of his generosity led to a tragic end.
Avoid Questions About Spending:
It's tempting to quiz winners on how they are splurging their new riches. However, etiquette expert Bonnie Sai advises against it, urging respect for their personal spending choices.
Steer Clear of Credit Score Inquiries:
It may seem harmless to inquire about a lottery winner's credit score, but the article highlights a chilling story. Abraham Shakespeare won $40 million in the Florida Lottery, only to be manipulated and ultimately murdered by someone offering to help with his finances.
Don't Probe Their Tax Situation:
Taxes can be a complex and private matter. Joy Weaver, an etiquette and protocol expert, suggests that prying into someone's tax affairs is akin to overstepping personal boundaries.
Avoid Price Tag Questions:
Asking about the cost of a winner’s new car, house, or other valuables can make conversations uncomfortable. If you're burning with curiosity, the article suggests a simple online search instead.
Refrain From Discussing Investments:
Investments and financial planning are personal. It’s better to steer the conversation away from such topics unless the lottery winner brings it up.
Avoid Asking About Donations:
While it's admirable to donate to charities, questioning lottery winners about their charitable contributions can come off as judgmental.
Don’t Ask for Financial Advice:
Just because they won the lottery doesn’t mean they’ve become financial advisors overnight. It’s better to seek financial advice from professionals.
Avoid Questions About Lifestyle Changes:
Transitioning from an average Joe to a millionaire overnight can be overwhelming. Respect their journey and avoid prying into how their day-to-day life has evolved.
Don’t Bring Up Their Old Job:
It might be tempting to ask if they've said goodbye to their 9-to-5 grind, but it's better to let them share such information if they wish.
Avoid Discussing Relationships:
Money can strain relationships. It's better not to delve into personal relationships unless the lottery winner opens up about it.
Don’t Assume They Will Pay For Everything:
Just because they have won a fortune doesn’t mean they will pick up the tab every time. It's important to maintain a sense of normalcy in interactions.
Maintain respect and understanding when interacting with lottery winners.
They are navigating uncharted waters filled with joy, challenges, and sometimes, unforeseen dangers. It’s always better to tread lightly, keeping conversations light, fun, and respectful.
So next time you bump into a lottery winner, remember, it's their good fortune, not an opportunity to satiate personal curiosities or financial desires.
A friendly chat about hobbies, travel, or food is a much better way to celebrate their luck together.