So it's 9pm, you're finally sitting down after a long day, and ping! A work email pops up. Do you answer it?

If you're struggling with this scenario, it's time we talk about boundaries. And no, setting boundaries doesn't make you difficult or uncooperative - it makes you human!

I'll let you in on a secret: When I was starting my business, I was jumping on zoom calls all hours of the day and night. I thought I was providing a great service to my clients. Instead, it left me really tired and really resentful. It wasn't until I started setting clear boundaries, allocating clients slots in my diary that I truly began to thrive both personally and professionally.

Boundaries are your personal guardrails. They protect your time, energy, and sanity. But here's the thing - they only work if they work for YOU.

One of my clients, Maria, a successful business woman, shared how setting boundaries transformed her business and her life. She used to answer client calls at all hours, thinking it was good customer service. But it was taking a toll on her family life and her well-being. When she set clear working hours and stuck to them, she found that not only did her stress levels decrease, but her clients respected her more.

Here's how to create boundaries that actually stick:

1. Know your limits: What drains you? What energises you? Be honest with yourself. For me, I realised that back-to-back meetings left me exhausted, so I now schedule buffer time between client sessions.
2. Communicate clearly: Let others know what your boundaries are. No need to apologise! It can be as simple as, "I'm not available after 5pm, but I'll get back to you first thing tomorrow."
3. Start small: Don't overhaul everything at once. Pick one area to focus on. Maybe it's not checking work emails on weekends, or setting aside one evening a week for self-care.
4. Be consistent: Stick to your boundaries, even when it's uncomfortable. Remember, you're teaching others how to treat you.
5. Reassess regularly: As your life changes, your boundaries might need to change too. What worked for you last year might not work now, and that's okay.
6. Use technology to your advantage: Set up auto-responders, use app blockers, or turn off notifications during your non-work hours.

Remember, it's okay to say no. It's okay to prioritise yourself. You're not being selfish - you're being sustainable. As one of my mentors once told me, "Boundaries are the distance at which I can love you and me simultaneously." 

What's one boundary you need to set or reinforce in your life? Remember, every small step towards better boundaries is a step towards a more fulfilling life.