Jillian speaks directly to the woman wearing many hats (you know you’re living at least some of them): mom, wife, and caretaker … or boss, a writer, a daughter, a sister, a friend, even a CEO. If you’re going to succeed at any or all of them, it’s going to take a lot of work! And Jillian is here to show you exactly how, with timely conversations and solid resources, sprinkled with a little grace for you, your work, and all of the roles you fill! Find this and more on The Grace-Filled CEO podcast.

Be sure to subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts or at www.jilliandolberry.com/podcast. You can also continue the conversation with Jillian on Instagram at @jilliandolberry.

The quickest path to freedom in your business isn't through working harder—it's through setting and maintaining boundaries. Like installing a good fence around your property, healthy boundaries protect what matters while still allowing meaningful connections to flourish.

Setting Boundaries With Clients

Creating strong client relationships without compromising your wellbeing is like performing a delicate ballet. Don't be afraid to establish clear guidelines—they actually enhance client engagement rather than hinder it.

Setting Expectations

For Yourself

• Assess realistic workloads
• Define achievable goals
• Establish personal limits
• Honor your capacity
• Maintain work-life balance

For Your Clients

• Clear deliverable timelines
• Communication protocols
• Response time expectations
• Project scope definitions
• Payment terms

For Your Team

• Performance standards
• Availability requirements
• Communication norms
• Collaboration guidelines
• Growth expectations

Communication Boundaries

Rate your communication effectiveness (1-10) in these areas:

• Team communication
• Client relationship management
• Self-reflection practices

Establish clear protocols for:

• Who communicates with whom
• When communication happens
• What gets communicated
• Where communication occurs
• How messages are delivered

Working Hours

Today's digital world makes it tempting to be always available. Instead:

• Define specific working hours
• Set client meeting windows
• Create emergency protocols
• Establish response expectations
• Protect personal time

New Boundary-Setting Strategies

Digital Boundaries

• Set app notification limits
• Use scheduling tools
• Implement communication platforms
• Create automated responses
• Establish offline periods

Project Management

• Use scope documents
• Create change request processes
• Implement milestone approvals
• Set revision limits
• Define project boundaries

Client Education

• Welcome packets
• Boundary documentation
• Process guidelines
• Communication preferences
• Emergency protocols

Team Protection

• Implement “three before me” rule
• Create knowledge bases
• Establish support networks
• Define escalation paths
• Set coverage protocols

Maintaining Your Boundaries

Remember, boundaries are like muscles—they need regular exercise to stay strong:

• Regular review and adjustment
• Consistent enforcement
• Clear communication
• Prompt addressing of violations
• Celebration of successes

The Power of “No”

Don't be afraid to use this powerful word:

• When requests exceed scope
• If timelines aren't realistic
• When values don't align
• If boundaries are challenged
• When capacity is full

Ready to transform your business through better boundaries? Visit jilliandolberry.com for more strategies on building and maintaining healthy boundaries in your business life.

Connect with me on Instagram @jilliandolberry for more tips on maintaining healthy boundaries in your business.

Remember: Your boundaries are the foundation of your freedom. Protect them fiercely, maintain them consistently, and watch your business thrive.

Resources:

• “Manage Your Boundaries, Energy and Time Like a CEO,” an audio lesson with a transcript and guided diagram to walk you through the areas where you're feeling the tension in your business.
• Jillian Dolberry’s website