How to Set Boundaries With Clients (Without Burning Bridges)

Tyra Goen
May 1, 2025
2 min read

Let's be real...

Running a small business often means wearing all the hats—and it’s easy to find yourself answering texts at 9 p.m., redoing work you shouldn’t have to, or saying “yes” to things that don’t fit your scope. Sound familiar? This month, I want to talk about one of the biggest challenges (and growth areas) for entrepreneurs: setting boundaries—in a way that protects your time and your relationships.

Boundaries aren’t about being harsh—they’re about being clear, consistent, and confident in how you do business. When done right, they:

Help you avoid burnout
Make expectations crystal clear
Build respect between you and your clients
Protect your mental bandwidth so you can serve better

5 Ways to Set Better Boundaries (That Clients Actually Appreciate)

Set Office Hours (and Stick to Them) Let clients know when you’re available—and when you’re not. Use an autoresponder or scheduler to reinforce those times.
Use a Scope of Work or Welcome Packet A clear document outlining what’s included (and what’s not) helps prevent scope creep and sets the tone early.
Say “Let Me Think About That” Instead of agreeing on the spot, buy time to consider whether something fits into your workload or values.
Use “I” Statements When you have to say no or reset expectations, lead with “I”—e.g., “I’ve found that my best work happens when…” This keeps things professional and personal.
Train Clients How to Work With You Do you prefer emails over texts? Weekly check-ins? Set those preferences from the beginning and reinforce gently when needed.

Remember:

Most clients want a good relationship just as much as you do—they’ll appreciate your professionalism and clarity. Boundaries don’t push people away; they build better working relationships when done right.