Boundary Burnout – Why Saying “Yes” is Draining You

Introduction
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, overextended, and constantly on the edge of burnout, chances are your boundaries need reinforcement. As therapists, caregivers, and high-stress professionals, we are conditioned to say “yes” to helping, overworking, and stretching ourselves thin. But at what cost?

Signs You Need Stronger Boundaries:

• You feel resentful toward your work, clients, or responsibilities.
• You struggle to disconnect from work after hours.
• You feel guilty when taking time for yourself.
• You’re constantly exhausted, even after a full night’s sleep.

How to Reinforce Your Boundaries Using the Burnout Break Journal

• Pause: Identify areas where your boundaries are weak. Write down situations where you said “yes” when you wanted to say “no.”
• Process: Explore why setting limits feels difficult. Is it fear of disappointing others? Feeling obligated? Lack of self-prioritization?
• Pivot: Create one non-negotiable boundary this week. Write it down, say it out loud, and commit to enforcing it.

Boundaries aren’t about pushing people away—they’re about protecting your energy so you can show up fully and sustainably.