Everyone loves to preach boundaries, yet few of us practice them when it matters most. The real power comes when you can define your limits and say it with your whole chest, without guilt or apology.
The phrase “say it with your chest” doesn’t often show up in corporate vocabulary, but its meaning belongs there. It’s about communicating with conviction and authenticity — speaking clearly, confidently, and without shrinking back.
Drawing Boundaries Isn’t Weak — It’s Wellness
We talk a lot about drawing boundaries, but what does that actually mean? Most of us know when we’re stretched too thin, yet we struggle to act on that awareness. Boundaries sound like self-care in theory, but in practice they require clarity, courage, and follow-through. In other words, you have to say it with your whole chest.
Setting boundaries is not about saying no to others — it’s about saying yes to yourself, your peace, and your purpose. And in a world that rewards overextension, doing that with conviction is one of the boldest well-being moves you can make.
Communication Boundaries Are Energy Boundaries
Your inbox, your calendar, and your phone are gateways to your mental health. Without clear communication boundaries, even the best intentions can turn into overwhelm.
Here are a few of mine:
- I don’t check emails until Monday at noon, after I’ve centered and defined my purpose for the week.
- I don’t schedule travel on Mondays or Fridays so I can start and end my week grounded.
- When I’m logged off, I’m logged off. If someone (even my husband) brings up work after hours, I’ll simply say “home vibes.”
- At social or networking events, if the talk turns too work-heavy, I’ll gently steer it elsewhere. Many of my friends are also subject-matter experts, and it’s easy for boundaries to blur.
Why it works:
Communication boundaries create rhythm — and rhythm creates peace. You can’t pour into your work or relationships if your mental inbox never empties.
Recharge Before You’re Running on Empty
When it comes to work and performance, listen to your internal battery.
If you’re below 20%, it’s time to step away — not push through. That’s when creativity, patience, and focus all start to die out. You wouldn’t let your phone drop to zero before charging it — so don’t do that to yourself.
Take a walk. Hit the gym. Stretch. Breathe. You’re not losing productivity; you’re restoring capacity. Every recharge brings you back sharper, calmer, and stronger.
Redefine What It Means to “Help”
Being a team player doesn’t mean being a constant fixer. It means showing up where your contribution counts most.
Try this:
- Replace “I can help with whatever you need” with “Here’s where I can add the most value.”
- Replace “Sure, I’ll jump in” with “That’s not my area, but I know someone great.”
- Replace “I’ll make it work” with “That doesn’t fit my bandwidth.”
Boundaries don’t make you less cooperative — they make you sustainably effective.
Make Boundaries a Core Part of Your Well-Being Routine
Boundaries belong on the same level as workouts, nutrition, and sleep. They’re not optional; they’re essential.
Try a weekly Boundary Audit:
- What did I agree to that drained me?
- What did I decline that freed me?
- What still needs clarification before it becomes a drain?
The key is consistency. Boundaries aren’t one-time declarations — they’re habits.
🧭 The DAO Mindset: Decide, Act, Own
- Decide what aligns with your peace and purpose.
- Act on it consistently.
- Own your boundaries without apology.
True wellness isn’t about balance — it’s about alignment.
Say it with your whole chest. Every time.
Boundaries aren’t barriers — they’re filters.
Your inbox doesn’t define your value.
Recharge before 20%..
