Boundaries aren't selfish. They're essential.

If there’s one thing I’ve been working on - quietly but intentionally - throughout 2025, it’s this: re-establishing healthy boundaries in both my personal and professional life. 

It’s been humbling. Eye-opening. And long overdue.

Until late last year, I had a business partner in my fractional HR ops company. I spent far too much time pouring my energy into building his business, while my own dream - The Leadership Greenhouse - sat quietly in the background, waiting to be nurtured.

I eventually made the tough (but right) call to walk away.

I wound down my HR company and turned toward what truly lights me up: coaching and supporting introverted leaders and personality-diverse teams. That decision took courage - and boundaries.

But this theme hasn’t just shown up in my business. 

In my personal life, I’ve noticed old habits creeping back in - putting the needs of family ahead of my own space and self-care. Like many introverts, I often default to over-functioning…and it’s left me more drained than I care to admit.

And if I’m being fully honest, this isn’t new.

Throughout my 30-year corporate career, I constantly overwhelmed myself. Saying “yes” too often. Working through lunch. Taking on more than I had capacity for. Because I didn’t want to disappoint anyone. Because I wanted to be seen as reliable. Because I thought that was leadership.

But I’m learning - again - that boundaries are not barriers. They’re bridges to sustainability. 

So if this resonates, and you’ve been feeling the slow creep of burnout or resentment, I invite you to pause and reflect with me.

🌱 Self-Coaching Prompts for Setting (or Resetting) Boundaries

Where in my life or work do I feel consistently drained or resentful? (These feelings are often signs that a boundary needs to be re-clarified.)

What am I saying “yes” to out of obligation, fear, or guilt - rather than alignment?

What would protecting my energy look like in this season? (Think small, tangible shifts: more buffer between meetings? Time offline after dinner?)

🪷 Three Quietly Bold Steps for Introverted Leaders

Name your non-negotiables.

Decide what you need in order to function well - whether that’s solo time between calls, a hard stop to your workday, or uninterrupted focus blocks. Name them. Honor them. 

Practice “pause and permission.” 

Before saying yes, pause. Ask yourself: Do I have the capacity for this? Does this align with my current values or goals? Grant yourself permission to say no - or not now.

Communicate clearly, gently, and early. 

Boundaries don’t have to be harsh. A simple “I’m not available that day, but here’s when I am”, or “I need a quiet start to my morning, so I’ll check in after 10” can go a long way.

I’d love to hear from you.

If this edition stirred something in you, or helped you name a boundary you’re ready to reclaim - feel free to hit reply and share. I read every note. 

Wishing you an enjoyable and restful weekend.

With care, Kris 🌸

💌 Know a fellow introvert who’d feel at home here? Forward this edition their way - they’re warmly welcome. 

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