subject: Boundaries, Convenience And Perception In Your Business [print this page] So many coaches talk about "boundaries" and "holding your boundaries" with clients, team members, etc. in order to create the business and life of your dreams.
In fact, I remember a former business advisor who often said I needed stronger boundaries or else my clients would not value me and all that I had to offer.
Boundaries, to that advisor, existed, in part, to create a certain perception of when and how much one works in their business as a symbol of perceived success.
That was not so for me.
So what exactly are boundaries?
I view boundaries as doing business on my terms:
* The hours I work -- after all, not being an employee means you don't have to be in the office from 9am - 5pm and gives you the flexibility to schedule clients around times which work for you both.
* The clients I work with -- accepting the fact that not everyone is a good match for your business is one of the most freeing things you can do for yourself and your business.
* Protecting myself from all the hype and BS which permeates online businesses and ticks me off whenever I see it -- you know it when you see it and my best advice is to unsubscribe and move on.
* And, speaking and living my truth (to borrow a phrase from a colleague which includes providing great client care in everything I do -- no matter what, you need to be true to who you are. . .those who resonate will join you. :-)
If it's convenient for me to check emails or respond to forum postings at 11pm on a Saturday night, that's when I will do it -- I do not post-date any of my emails so the client won't see them until 9am Monday morning, thus creating an illusion of when I work.
It's about convenience and providing client care rather than perception. . .I work more than 4 hours a week and I am proud to share that fact with you.
MY REQUEST TO YOU
We are all busy. . .in our businesses and in our lives. You need to create you boundaries which will support your desired business and lifestyle.
What are your "non-negotiables" or boundaries for your business?
Remember that strong boundaries -- as defined by you -- create a strong business.
I would love to hear from you about the boundaries you create for your business and lifestyle.
