My sister runs a small business and recently asked me to help with a major project—design work, marketing materials, and some copywriting. I agreed, thinking it’d be a paid gig. I’m a professional in this field, and she knows it.
After a week of intense work, I sent her the invoice. She replied with a laughing emoji and said, “You’re family. I thought you’d do it for free—or maybe like $50?” For context, the market rate for what I did is easily over $1,000.
I calmly explained that while I love her, I have bills to pay and clients who respect my time. She got defensive, accused me of being greedy, and said I should “support her dreams.” I reminded her that supporting someone doesn’t mean being exploited.
She then tried to guilt-trip me, bringing up childhood memories and how I “owe” her for things she did years ago. I shut that down fast. I told her I’d be happy to help in the future—but only with clear terms and fair compensation.
She ended up ghosting me for days. Then, out of nowhere, she posted on social media about “fake supporters” and how “some people only care about money.” I didn’t respond publicly, but I did send her a final message: “Respect goes both ways. I’m not your free labor.”
We haven’t spoken since. Honestly, I’m okay with that. Boundaries matter—even with family.
