This is a question that I often hear from my exhausted clients trying to wear all the hats. Is this the only point of view? I propose to change it. The real question is, why do your clients feel they can ask for an endless service for their money? Of course, there are some basics, like defining the scope of work and what they can and cannot expect from you. Here comes the tricky part: you do not sell time. You sell your expertise. You can deliver that expertise in a short time with a concise presentation, document, and guidance. More time does not guarantee better quality work. But it does guarantee your peace and wellbeing.

Establecer límites con los clientes no es fácil, pero es esencial para cuidar tu tiempo y energía. Comienza definiendo tus horarios y formas de comunicación, dejando claro cuándo estás disponible. Si un cliente intenta sobrepasar esos límites, responda con firmeza pero empatía: “Entiendo que esto es importante, pero prefiero hablarlo en nuestro horario acordado para darte mi mejor atención”. Recuerda que decir “no” no es rechazo, es una forma de proteger tu capacidad de ayudar de manera efectiva.

When I see this occurring, often boundaries and agreements weren't set or established in the first place so this calls for some clear communication on boundaries and availability. We teach people how to treat us so it's on us to look at why we didn't set them in the first place and secondly why we aren't valuing our own time. Nobody owns you because they pay you and you don't owe them anything beyond the agreement of services. This can be a time of self reflection and establishing what you want your practice and your time to look like and keeping your word to yourself.

Estas medidas precisam ser tomadas, se n?o viram um caos. Tudo deve ser estabelecido em contrato, para n?o haver situa??es nas quais fique em divergência de alinhamento de objetivo final.

Setting boundaries starts with valuing your time and energy as much as you value helping others. Clearly define your working hours, communication limits, and scope. Communicate them respectfully but firmly. Remember, saying "no" sometimes means saying "yes" to your well-being and better service.