Showerthought: I used to just nod along when my mom asked for money

For years, every time she called saying she was short for bills, I'd send $200 without asking questions. Then, about three months ago, she asked for rent money the same week she posted about a new expensive purse. I finally said I needed to see the actual bill before I could help. It was super hard, but now we have a rule where I pay the company directly. Has anyone else had to switch from giving cash to paying bills to stop the guilt trips?

3 comments

3 Comments

kelly_grant151mo ago

Feel for you, that's a tough spot. Setting that boundary was really smart, even if it felt awful at the time. Paying the company directly is a perfect solution, it helps without enabling. Good on you for making that change.

taylor.matthew1mo ago

Appreciate the backup @kelly_grant15, that's exactly the right move.

nancy_garcia6320d ago

Disagree on paying the company directly. That still ties you to their mess. What happens when the bill is late again? You're on the hook or you have to fight with the company. Real help is letting them face the full result of their own choices. Paying for someone teaches nothing.