What is the proper protocol for rescinding a favor towards a family member?

While practicing generosity with our loved ones is important, there is no denying that some are going to take this too far. There are plenty of people who believe that by virtue of being in the same family, they are allowed to do whatever they please at the expense of their relatives.

This kind of arrangement is undeniably annoying at best and genuinely detrimental to a person’s quality of life at worst, but how it should be dealt with is very context-dependent. Not every transgression requires a complete scorched-earth reaction. While the unfortunate truth is that the only way to stop some individuals from taking advantage is to cut them out completely, for many others, issues can be managed with a simple conversation. While this can be awkward, it is usually best to try to discuss a problem before doing anything more drastic. At least then you have evidence that you tried to communicate about the issue, even if they were not receptive to this. Part of being willing to be the family that helps family is knowing your limits, and letting others know when they happen to cross them.