Exploiting favours?

Since a reasonably young age I’ve used computers and other electrical components. As you can imagine, these are things that run into trouble and are also of the kind one wants to modify. Naturally when one does not have much wealth, one reads and experiments. Over time one gains some experience but remains a novice unless one specialises in such field. I being the former.

Often I’m asked questions and asked to do stuff, ie favours. I do not have problems with the former and to a reasonable extent usually don’t with the latter. The problem or frustration arises when another exploits favours or good will by frequently asking for favours. Depending on the frequency, in some cases it is fine, however, among them are some whom appear to demand rather than ask, they are also among those whom politely place time limits and display frustration and complain if such ‘favours’ are not complete whilst showing blatant disregard to take consideration of other work or activities I may have. It appears they subconsciously blur the line between favour and paid work, the reality is, these fall within the category of favour. None of the work is paid and neither do I ask.

Usually what I’m asked to do may at first appear difficult to the average person, however, the average person, with the help of google, could research and plan on a Saturday and execute on Sunday. It is true there is some work that may require extended research, however, one attains knowledge. I’m happy to answer questions and guide people. Referring to those mentioned earlier, they do not observe (to attain knowledge) but rather leave and return when work is done. Among some work I’m asked questions as to what can be done and what can not. Relating to this there are the most simple factors, one would only need to pay attention to understand. The problem is when I’m answerring the question with detail so they may understand, they look with dismay and turn their faces.

Let me tell you story of the past, whilst deviating slightly from the main subject of events implied earlier. I attended an event as a invited guest and was handed a task (favour) to film, to which I expressed my discomfort. Being socially pressured, I accepted the task with concern. To my ability I did what was required of me. I was further asked to go round and film more closely, by this time the other guests were eating. I hold a strong opinion that under no circumstances should one film another whilst the other is eating. It causes discomfort to the other. In fact I do not appreciate filming any event. I avoid it. Being socially pressured into it, I went round and did what I was told. After the event I’m given the further task of processing the video and creating copies, time consuming. Having completed the work and recognising short fallings due to equipment, software and limited expertise in this field, I handed over the completed work. Instead of a mere ‘thank you’ or compliment or even silence, I was greeted with criticism, complaint and other negative comments along the lines “had we known…, we would have done it ourselves”.

I have no doubt focused much on areas of frustration that is part of the frustration or problems of my life. I would add there are other categories of people such as those with limited knowledge and no self research, however, the difference between these and the former being that of character. These are those that do not place time limits or show frustration if work is incomplete or if work has taken time. They do not mind listening or observing and among are some that may ask questions so as to attain knowledge. I am happy to help these.
Then lastly are those whom do much self research and ask help or questions on that they do not know and I ask of that which I do not. There is an exchange of knowledge so that we may prosper. We may ask each other for favours and indeed such is more preferable.

Perhaps you find yourself in similar situations or perhaps you have other thoughts on the topic, so do feel free to leave comments.