Dear Annie: My teenage son just got his driver’s license, and ever since, my parents have been offering him money to run errands for them. On one hand, I think it’s good he’s learning responsibility. On the other hand, I feel like they’re taking advantage of him because he never says no.
Last week, they had him driving across town three times in one day, and he came home exhausted. I don’t want to step on my parents’ toes, but I also don’t want my son to feel pressured to be their chauffeur. How do I step in without creating family tension? — Concerned Mom
Dear Concerned Mom: Rather than step in, teach your son the magic of a polite “no.” If he doesn’t want to run errands — or take the money — all he has to say is, “Sorry, I can’t today.”
Your parents will survive the disappointment, and your son will gain a valuable skill: setting boundaries for himself.
Read more Dear Annie and other advice columns.
“How Can I Forgive My Cheating Partner?” is out now! Annie Lane’s second anthology — featuring favorite columns on marriage, infidelity, communication and reconciliation — is available as a paperback and e-book. Visit Creators Publishing for more information. Send your questions for Annie Lane to [email protected].
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