Can we talk about family thinking you're always free because you freelance?

Jake Murphy · 2026-02-24T03:05:34.125715+00:00

Hey folks, I gotta warn you about a big problem I faced. My family keeps interrupting my work because I freelance from home. For example, my mom drops by without asking, thinking I can just stop working. This messed up a deadline recently when I had to entertain visitors instead of finishing a project. You need to set clear boundaries with your relatives right away. Explain your work hours and stick to them. It saved my sanity and my income!

phoenix_fisher797mo ago

Yeah, but that's easier said than done.

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dylanmorgan7mo ago

Oh sure, "set clear boundaries," that sounds like a nice fantasy. I'm with @phoenix_fisher79 on this one, because my relatives hear "work from home" and their brains translate it to "available for constant chatting and chores." Setting a boundary just gets you that look like you kicked a puppy. My favorite is when they act surprised every single time you're actually working, like it's a new hobby you picked up.

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the_logan5mo ago

You're acting like your family is plotting against you. They just want to see you. My relatives used to stop by all the time until I realized they actually wanted to help me out, not sabotage my work. Now my dad brings me lunch on Tuesdays and my sister watches my kid for an hour so I can focus. That "kicked puppy" look goes away fast when you start saying "hey, I can chat at noon" instead of slamming the door in their face. Maybe try making them part of the solution instead of treating them like the enemy.

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