Setting Boundaries as a Leader: How I Learned to Protect My Energy
Protecting Your Energy: The Leadership Lesson I Learned the Hard Way
As a leader, I used to think that saying “yes” to everything was the way to prove my commitment. Every request, every meeting, every opportunity—I said yes to it all. I thought this was what good leaders did: they gave everything of themselves, without hesitation. But over time, I began to realise the cost. I was burning out. My energy was scattered, my focus diminished, and I was no longer leading effectively.
The Turning Point
The turning point came during a particularly intense period at work. I was running on empty, yet I kept saying yes, driven by the belief that anything less would be a failure on my part. One day, after a particularly draining week, I realised I couldn’t keep going like this. Something had to change.
I started to reflect on how I was spending my time and energy. It became clear that my constant “yes” was not only unsustainable but also counterproductive. In trying to give everything, I was giving nothing my best.
Learning to Set Boundaries
The first step was learning to say no. At first, it felt deeply uncomfortable. I worried about letting people down or being perceived as uncommitted. But as I started setting clear boundaries—declining tasks that weren’t aligned with my priorities, delegating more, and carving out time for myself—something surprising happened. Instead of resentment, I found clarity. Instead of burnout, I found balance. Setting boundaries didn’t make me less committed; it made me more present, more focused, and ultimately more effective.
The Impact of Boundaries
Setting boundaries isn’t just about saying no; it’s about saying yes to the things that truly matter. By protecting my energy, I was able to show up fully for the tasks and people that needed me most. I became a better leader, not despite my boundaries, but because of them.
When you protect your energy, you send a powerful message to your team: that self-care is not selfish, and that prioritising what matters is the key to sustainable success. It’s a lesson that has not only transformed the way I lead but also the way I live.
Actionable Takeaways
Reflect on Your Priorities: Take time to evaluate where your energy is going. Are you focusing on what truly matters?
Learn to Say No: Practice declining tasks or requests that don’t align with your priorities. It’s not about rejection; it’s about redirection.
Delegate Effectively: Trust your team to handle tasks that don’t require your direct involvement. Delegation empowers others and frees you up for higher-level focus.
Carve Out Time for Yourself: Whether it’s a quiet moment in the morning or an afternoon walk, make time to recharge. You can’t pour from an empty cup.
An Invitation to Lead with Intention
Leadership isn’t about giving everything until there’s nothing left. It’s about showing up with purpose, clarity, and energy. By setting boundaries, you not only protect yourself but also create a culture where balance and focus are valued.
So, the next time you feel the pull to say yes, pause and reflect. What are you truly saying yes to? By protecting your energy, you’re not letting others down; you’re showing them what it means to lead with intention.
