Nine to Thrive.

I used to think being a good employee meant always saying “yes.”
I’d answer emails after hours, take calls in the middle of the night, and even ask to help with more projects. I covered shifts, wore my busyness like a badge of honor, and believed that hard work always pays off. And while it does in some ways, I never set boundaries for myself and ended up being used for my hard work.

You know the saying, “If you want something done, give it to a busy person”?
Yep, that was me. I was exhausted, anxious, and constantly pouring from an empty cup. That’s when I woke up and realized… I was just surviving, not thriving. I was already on the brink of burnout.

And that’s when I learned the real secret to thriving at work: setting boundaries.

The Wake Up Call

My turning point came when I started dreading work. Not because of the job itself, but because I felt like I had no control. I was always go, go, go. I’d answer calls during dinner, check emails before bed, and say yes to projects before I even knew what I was agreeing to.

Some days were so draining that I’d come home and cry from pure exhaustion. But one day, mid-cry, I thought to myself: What the heck am I doing? I’m way too young to be this burnt out. If I keep this up, what will I have left for myself?

And that question, my friends, changed everything.

Hey Siri, Define Professionalism

Setting boundaries doesn’t make you unprofessional and never let anyone tell you otherwise. Boundaries don’t make you “uncommitted” or “lazy.” They make you sustainable.

True professionalism isn’t about impressing your boss or looking busy; it’s about doing your best work while also taking care of yourself. You only get one body…don’t ruin it.

A blog from Haven Psychology Group says it best:

“Boundaries are not barriers – they are bridges to healthier relationships, improved performance, and a more fulfilling work-life balance.”

Once I started protecting my energy and setting boundaries, my work actually improved. I became more creative, focused, and less resentful. I made fewer mistakes because I finally slowed down and paid attention.

Boundaries That Changed My Work Life

Here are a few boundaries I’ve set that made the biggest difference. It’s not easy at first, but it’s worth it in the long run.

• Respect goes both ways. If someone consistently crosses a line, I address it directly instead of silently resenting it. Don’t be a pushover when it comes to respect.
• No after-hours email replies. If it’s not urgent, it can wait until morning. Even if you’re on call or salary, your life shouldn’t revolve around work. Finish what you’re doing, then call back when you can.
• Lunch breaks are non-negotiable. Stepping away from my desk isn’t a luxury, it’s a reset. I stopped eating lunch in my office and started giving myself space to breathe.
• “I’d like some time to think about it.” My go-to phrase when I’m unsure about taking on something new. It gives me space to decide instead of automatically saying yes.

Thriving vs Surviving

Thriving isn’t about doing more, more, more. It’s about doing what matters most without losing yourself in the process.

Once I stopped corresponding boundaries with guilt, I started feeling more confident at work. I showed up with intention instead of exhaustion.

Now, I protect my energy like it’s part of my job…because it is.

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Boundaries don’t build walls; they build balance. They remind you that you are more than your job title and that your peace matters just as much as your productivity.

So the next time you feel stretched thin, remember: thriving starts when you stop apologizing for not having time to take on everything, and start respecting your own limits.

Until next time,

Callie

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