Why You Don’t Need All the Boundaries at Once to Fix Burnout

We’ve all heard it: “Boundaries are the key to success.” And I agree—it’s true. Boundaries are essential for protecting our time, our energy, and ultimately, our sense of purpose and fulfillment. Without them, we often find ourselves overextended, resentful, and on the fast track to burnout.

But let’s be honest—while the concept of boundaries might be empowering, the process of actually setting them can feel completely overwhelming.

For many of us, the challenge isn’t understanding that we need boundaries—it’s figuring out how to start. Especially when we’ve spent years or even decades operating without them.

Whether it’s saying yes to every request, staying late to “be helpful,” or checking messages during off-hours, we’ve often been praised for putting others first. That people-pleasing instinct is strong—and when we suddenly try to reverse course and assert our needs, it can feel uncomfortable, even selfish.

That discomfort is normal. But it’s also where many people get stuck.

The All-or-Nothing Trap

Here’s another truth: once we do realize we need boundaries, many of us try to implement all of them at once.

We think, “I need to stop answering emails after hours, take a real lunch break, protect my weekends, stop covering for others, and say no more often.” And while those are all valid goals, trying to tackle them simultaneously is like deciding to run a marathon tomorrow after years on the couch. It’s overwhelming, unsustainable, and almost always leads to frustration or burnout in a new form.

Boundaries work best when they’re built slowly, intentionally, and with room to grow. You don’t have to flip a switch and go from zero to 100. In fact, it’s better if you don’t.

Why Small Steps Matter

Small, consistent steps toward boundary-setting are powerful.

Maybe you start by deciding not to check work messages during dinner. Or maybe your first step is simply pausing before saying yes to a new request, instead of immediately agreeing. These actions may seem minor, but over time, they build your confidence, shift your mindset, and lay the foundation for stronger boundaries in other areas.

Starting small also helps you figure out what boundaries truly matter most in your life right now. You can evaluate what’s working, what feels good, and where you’re still feeling stretched too thin.

Boundaries aren’t static—they evolve with you. That’s why it’s okay to begin with just one or two and adjust as your needs change.

Give Yourself Permission

Here’s what I want you to know: you don’t have to do this perfectly. You don’t need a color-coded spreadsheet of boundaries. You don’t need to be rigid or harsh. You just need to give yourself permission to begin.

Small Boundaries Can Help Prevent Burnout

Boundaries aren’t about pushing people away—they’re about honoring your needs, your values, and your capacity. And that starts with the courage to take one small step, even when it feels uncomfortable.

Discomfort doesn’t mean you’re doing it wrong. It means you’re doing something new—and that’s a good thing.

Why I Created the Boundary Challenge

I created the 7-Day Boundary Challenge for this very reason. I saw how many high-achieving, compassionate professionals were struggling—not because they didn’t know they needed boundaries, but because they didn’t know how to begin.

The challenge is designed to help you take those small but powerful first steps. Each day focuses on one simple concept and action, so you’re never overwhelmed. You’ll reflect, experiment, and build momentum without the pressure to change your entire life overnight.

It’s about progress, not perfection. And by the end, you’ll have more clarity, more confidence, and at least a few new tools to protect your time and energy.

You Deserve Peace, Too

You don’t need to earn rest. You don’t need to prove that you’re worthy of boundaries. You are allowed to protect your peace—not just when you’re burned out, but before you get there.

So if you’ve been feeling overwhelmed at the idea of setting boundaries, know this: you’re not alone, and you don’t have to do it all today. Choose one place to start. Take one step. And let that be enough for now.

Join me in the

and take this small step to control your chaos and get to calm. 

You’ve got this.