As a busy working mum, your day likely begins before sunrise and stretches late into the evening, usually filled with work deadlines, school drop-offs, dinner prep, and a thousand things in between. It’s no surprise that your time and energy often feel stretched thin. One of the most powerful tools you can use to regain control and protect your well-being is setting clear, healthy boundaries.
But let’s be honest—setting boundaries can feel uncomfortable. You might worry about letting people down, or fear being seen as difficult.
Boundaries aren’t walls to keep others out—they’re the foundations that keep you grounded, balanced, and able to thrive in all areas of your life.
Why Boundaries Matter
Boundaries help you:
- Protect your time and energy.
- Prioritise what truly matters to you.
- Prevent burnout.
- Communicate your needs clearly and confidently.
- Model healthy behavior for your children.
Without boundaries, it’s easy to fall into the cycle of overcommitting, people-pleasing, and running on empty. But when you create space for your own needs, you show up as a more present mum, partner, and professional.
How to Start Setting Boundaries
1. Identify Where You Feel our of Balance
Start by noticing the areas of your life that cause stress or exhaustion. Is it the constant late-night work emails? The never-ending school WhatsApp chats? These are often signs that a boundary needs to be set.
2. Get Clear on What You Need
Ask yourself:
- What do I need more of in my day? (Rest, fun, connection, space?)
- What do I need less of? (Obligations, noise, pressure, screen time?)
Getting specific here can help you name boundaries or habits to shift. Understanding your needs is the first step to communicating them.
3. Communicate and stay consistent
Communicate these new boundaries by being clear and specific. Let the other person know what the boundary is and why it matters to you. Once you’ve communicated your boundaries, reinforce them by sticking to them. People learn how to treat you based on what you consistently allow. Boundaries only work if you honor them.
4. Reframe the Guilt
Feeling guilty is normal but it’s not a sign you’re doing something wrong. It’s often just a sign you’re doing something new. Setting boundaries is an act of self-respect, not selfishness. You deserve the same care and consideration you give everyone else.
As a life coach for working mums, I help women like you uncover where boundaries are needed, build the confidence to set them, and create sustainable routines that protect your time and energy. Please contact me if you would like a Discovery call.