When our nanny quit unexpectedly, my husband’s unemployed mother offered to babysit our two young kids. I was desperate, so I agreed. But working from home with her around was chaos. She didn’t grasp boundaries—interrupting my meetings, barging in to chat, and letting the kids wander into my workspace. I tried explaining, but she didn’t change. The stress was unbearable.
Then she asked to be paid. Her rate wasn’t outrageous, but the idea of compensating someone who constantly disrupted my work felt wrong. I told my husband I’d rather hire a professional who respects limits. He disagreed, insisting we should help his mom financially until she retires.
I reminded him that he doesn’t work from home—he doesn’t see how disruptive she is. Eventually, he relented. We paid her for the two weeks she helped and agreed to assist with some bills. Still, he was upset, and she criticized me for choosing a “stranger” over family. But I knew I needed peace to do my job and protect my sanity.
Thankfully, our former nanny was available again. She starts Monday. I feel guilty, but I also feel relieved. Family support is valuable, but not when it comes at the cost of mental health and professional stability. Boundaries matter—and sometimes, love means saying no.
