Comment by galaxyLogic

Isn't it always better to try to guess how others might feel about your request, and not make it if you think there is a chance it would make people not answer your phone-call the next time?

It feels especially bad when I think somebody may be trying to take advantage of me being a nice person.

Confidence men - isn't that what this is all about? Somebody wanting to gain your confidence (that they will somehow pay yo8u back) so then they can take advantage of you?