Build with Boundaries: Protect Your Energy and Focus

Day 3 of Clarity & Creativity

Sneaky Boundary Violations

In our lives, boundary violations can sometimes be visible—like a clear intrusion into your personal time or space. But at other times, these infringements are subtler, slipping in disguised as favors, unspoken expectations, or even our own inability to say no. Recognizing these moments are crucial because they often signal where a boundary needs to be considered.

Boundaries aren’t just about saying “no” to others—they’re also about saying “yes” to ourselves. As therapists, coaches, creatives, or business nerds, we’re often pulled in multiple directions, while juggling responsibilities that demand both our energy and attention. Without clear boundaries, burnout is possible, as I discovered in my dissertation.¹ Setting boundaries isn’t about perfection—it’s about creating a framework that helps you stay focused, energized, and aligned with what truly matters to you.

In today’s post, we’ll explore practical tips so you can reevaluate your boundaries and any tweaks you need to make to them.

---

Why Boundaries Matter

As Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend explain in their seminal works, boundaries function like fences: they define where one person’s responsibilities end and another’s begin, which aids in providing clarity and security (Cloud & Townsend, 1992; Townsend & Cloud, 1999).²³

Imagine trying to travel on roads without stop signs, stop lights, delineated lanes, or other signs. Driving would be chaotic! (It’s already kind of chaotic (especially in FL) but imagine it without clear boundary lines). This is how it is running a business without boundaries, it can become chaotic.

Back to the point, boundaries provide structure, clarity, and stability, giving you the freedom to grow and create without overextending yourself.

Here are a few ways boundaries support you:

• Preserve Energy: Protect your mental, emotional, and physical resources.

• Boost Productivity: Reduce distractions and focus on your priorities.

• Enhance Relationships: Clear expectations make for healthier personal and professional interactions.

To read the rest of this post, please check out the opt in page so you can sign up for a 30 day trial to my blog and participate in the 12 days of clarity & creativity.