The Beginning Nanny
“I just want them to like me.”
Says yes to everything
Stays late without mentioning it
Answers texts off the clock
Feels guilty setting boundaries
Tries to “prove” they’re a good nanny
Energy: over-accommodating
The Burned Out Nanny
“Why am I exhausted all the time?”
Constantly emotionally available
No separation between work & personal life
Feels resentful but keeps pushing through
Dreads last-minute schedule changes
Starts questioning the career entirely
Energy: overwhelmed
The Boundaried Nanny
“Being professional doesn’t make you difficult.”
Communicates clearly and calmly
Has work hours and protects them
Knows their value without over-explaining
Supports families without self-sacrificing
Understands boundaries create longevity
Energy: professionally confident
Most nannies start as Version 1.
A lot hit Version 2.
The goal is Version 3.
Version 3 is the standard this work should operate from.
In reality, boundaries, energy, and capacity are often learned the hard way — but they don’t need to be.
Nannies, aim for Version 3 before burnout forces it.
Which version do you relate to most right now?
