Learn to pause, set clear boundaries and know your worth

I’ve always been the one people come to. It started early—helping friends navigate tough situations, offering support when someone was struggling, or just being the steady presence others could lean on. Sound familiar?

If you’re a nurturer by nature, like me, you know this role well. It’s part of who we are. But let’s be real—it’s not always as rewarding as it sounds.

The Good Stuff Being a nurturer has its perks. We’re the ones who make people feel seen and heard. We build trust, create connection, and bring people together. Whether it’s our families, our friendships, or our work, nurturing helps us create a sense of belonging.

And let’s face it—seeing someone thrive because of your support? That feels amazing.

I’ve had those moments where I know I made a difference. Maybe it was helping a client untangle a business issue or giving a friend the space to vent when they needed it most. Those moments fill me up, and I wouldn’t trade them for anything.

The Tough Stuff

Sometimes being a nurturer feels less like a gift and more like a burden. There’s the constant pull to do more, to give more, to be more for everyone around us. And if we’re not careful, that pull can leave us depleted, resentful, or just plain exhausted.

I’ve been there too. Saying yes when I should have said no. Taking on other people’s problems to the point where I couldn’t see my own. Feeling like if I didn’t step in, everything might fall apart. Sound familiar again?

Learning the Hard Way

It’s taken me years to figure out that nurturing doesn’t mean sacrificing myself. I’ve had to learn—sometimes the hard way—that I can care deeply and still set boundaries. I can show up for others and protect my own energy.

It hasn’t always been easy, and I’m still a work in progress. But here’s what’s helped me stay grounded:

1. Pause Before You Say Yes: I’ve learned to ask myself, “Do I really have the bandwidth for this right now?” It’s not selfish—it’s honest.
2. Set Clear Boundaries: Whether it’s in my personal life or with clients, I’ve realized that boundaries aren’t about shutting people out—they’re about making sure I can keep showing up without burning out.
3. Own My Value: This was a big one for me. Being a nurturer doesn’t mean undervaluing my time, my expertise, or my energy. I’ve learned to recognize that my work—whether it’s coaching, leading a mastermind, or helping someone through a tough moment—is worth something.

What About You? If you’re a nurturer, how’s it going for you? Are you feeling fulfilled, or are you running on empty?

I’d love to hear your story. What’s working? What’s not? Let’s have a real conversation about what it means to care for others without losing ourselves in the process.

Love & Light,

Susan