Running a small business is one of the most fulfilling careers you could pursue, but it’s also one of the easiest ways to burn yourself out if you’re not careful. That's exactly what happened to me in my first business and we don't want the same happening to you so here are boundaries every entrepreneur needs to set asap!
Whether you're a solopreneur, creative entrepreneur, or small business owner having to juggle multiple roles every day, creating healthy boundaries is key to achieving sustainable growth & success long term!
I recently shared a YouTube video on the four essential boundaries every small business owner needs to implement to protect their creativity, boost productivity, and maintain that ever-elusive work-life balance. Here’s the recap in blog form (with some BONUS boundaries!) – perfect for those who like their advice in small doses!
Business Boundary #1: Me Time BEFORE Screen Time!
If you’re reaching for your phone before you’ve even roll out of bed, it’s time for a wake-up call… literally. Your creativity and intuition - aka your SUPERPOWERS - is at any all time high when you first wake up. But immediately filling your head with everyone else's ideas and content is a quick way to quiet them.
One of the best boundaries you can set as a business owner is carving out intentional "me time" before diving into emails, DMs, and the endless social media scroll. Whether it’s sipping your coffee in silence, going a walk in nature, journaling, meditating, or my personal go-to: my morning manifestation ritual! It doesn't really matter as long as it's filling your own cup so you can pour into your clients and community!
Starting TOMORROW put your phone in another room and start the day focusing on you for the first few minutes. You'll instantly notice a difference in your mood, energy, and creativity throughout the day.
Ps. Use your phone as an alarm? This is your permission slip to invest into your self and business by getting a clock. Might I recommend this vibey sunrise alarm clock one for easier wake-ups?
Business Boundary Boundary #2: STOP Talking About Your Business Goals (with non-business owners)
I know you're just trying to make small talk and maybe are really excited about your new idea, BUT if that person isn't a fellow entrepreneur or 110% supportive - stop sharing! They don't understand your vision, your dreams, your potential and most likely you'll leave that conversation filled with self doubt & no useful advice. Instead if they ask about your business say "I prefer to keep my professional and personal life separate" and then change the conversation!
DISCLAIMER: you STILL need support in your business though! Whether that's a monthly coffee date with local small business owners, a coach or mentor to chat with weekly, or supportive spouse who believes in you more than you do. We all need someone to lean on during the hard days of entrepreneurship.
If you don't have that uplifting community yet, you're going to want to check out Business Besties ASAP!
Business Boundary Boundary #3: Weekly Social Media Breaks
Social media can feel like a necessary evil for business owners. While it’s a fantastic tool for connection and marketing, it can also be a black hole of comparison, overthinking, and exhaustion. Committing to a weekly social media break—even if it’s just for 24 hours—can work wonders for your mental health. Use that time to recharge offline, reconnect with loved ones, and relax! You best ideas and new offers might just pop into your head when you allow yourself to rest and brain to tap into those magical alpha waves!
I know, it's scary to take a day away as a solopreneur because if you aren't posting, no one is! But your feed will survive without you for a day and the algorithm will actually favor your content when you come back! Don't just take my word for it! Watch the video above for how to boost your engagement after taking a social media break!
Business Boundary Boundary #4: “Hell Yes” Energy Only!
This one’s a game-changer. When new ideas, opportunities, collaborations come your way, ask yourself: Does this light me up? If it’s not a “hell yes,” it’s a no. Protecting your time and energy is crucial to staying aligned with your business goals and avoiding resentment. Plus your community can FEEL your vibe through the phone. The energy in which you create something is woven through every aspect of that project. You don't want your clients picking up on your stress and dread, right?
Instead, shift your mood before taking action. As Gabby Bernstein says "You are ALWAYS most successful having FUN!" so find ways to make every business task more enjoyable! Maybe light a candle, have an hourly Taylor Swift dance party for one, get cozy on the couch with a cup of tea while you work - anything to get you into the energy of HELL YES will benefit your business!
BONUS: Energetic Business Boundaries
Beyond the practical boundaries, it’s also essential to create energetic ones. Think of it like wrapping yourself in a cozy protective bubble before diving into work. Visualize your energy staying centered and any drama, negativity, or haters bounce right off. This simple practice can make a world of difference in how you show up for your business and yourself.
Use this quick guided visualization to create an energetic boundary before hoping on social media, client calls, or work meetings!
Journal Prompts to Create Your OWN Business Boundaries
If you’re ready to craft some customized boundaries for yourself, grab your journal and try these prompts:
What are you unwilling to do or sacrifice to achieve your goals?
What business advice gives you an immediate ick?
What habits or routines did not or are not serving you, your family, or your business?
What boundaries would your best/happiest/future self have?
What boundaries have you heard from others that you want to add to your list?
Additional Boundaries to Consider:
Take at Least a 30-Minute Lunch Break
Stepping away from work for a proper lunch break is more than just about fueling your body. Science shows our creative brain only operates at full capacity for 4 hours. So by taking a mid-day break to eat and get a bit of movement in, your mind gets a chance to reset and your body an opportunity to get the blood & energy flowing again.
3-Hour Social Media Time Limit Per Day
Set a daily cap on social media in your settings to avoid falling into the endless doom scroll. This helps you use that time online intentionally for your business as well as create more time for other priorities like your self care, family, hobbies, etc.
Block Trolls or Disruptive People
If you wouldn't let them say it to your face, why do you allow it in your digital space? Don’t hesitate to block trolls or anyone who disrupts the peace on your social media pages. Maintaining a positive online environment is vital for mental wellbeing and keeping your community safe!
No Working Past ___PM
Give yourself a hard stop at the end of the workday. Respecting your personal time helps prevent burnout and allows you to recharge for the next day. Plus science shows that when we stop mid-task it is easier for us to get restarted the next day because we know what the next step is already!
Never Send Cold Pitch DMs (or Work with Companies Who Do)
Cold pitches feel impersonal and turn that client into just another number. After sending hundreds during my network marketing days, which is caused most of my burnout, instead I choose to focus on building genuine connections with my community and creating opportunities for them to work with me.
Reschedule Clients, Meetings, Live Events, Etc If You’re Not Feeling 111%
Your well-being comes first! And your clients and community deserve you at your best. Reschedule if you're not feeling 100% mentally, physically, emotionally, or spiritually. I find usually whenever I ask to change the dates, my client responds "OMG! That actually works better for me too!" and they'll be grateful you respect their time & investment as well!
Remember, boundaries aren’t about restriction; they’re about creating a safe space for everyone in your community and yourself to grow and thrive! I'd love to hear which ones you are going to set in your own business. Leave a comment below to share some ideas with the rest of us!
Now go set some boundaries and protect your peace!
magically,
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