“Boundaries aren’t about keeping people out. They’re about protecting what matters most inside.”
I used to think boundaries were harsh. Rigid. Like putting up a big “No Trespassing” sign that screamed: stay out.
But now I know better.
Boundaries are not walls. They’re invitations.
They invite peace, presence, and alignment. They say: This is who I am now. And this is what I will and will not allow.
Let’s talk about what that actually looks like—especially if you’re a woman navigating midlife, menopause, or the messy middle of reinvention.

What Boundaries Really Are
Boundaries are self-respect in action.
They’re the invisible line that protects your energy, time, emotional bandwidth, and physical well-being. They define what’s okay for you—and what’s not.
They don’t need to be dramatic or defensive. Sometimes, a boundary is as simple as:
Turning your phone on Do Not Disturb after 8 PM
Saying no to that meeting that’s not aligned
Canceling plans without guilt because your body said “rest”
Not engaging in conversations that spiral into drama
Boundaries are not punishment. They’re protection.

Why Boundaries Can Feel So Damn Hard
Let’s be honest. Most of us weren’t taught how to set boundaries—we were taught how to be “good.”
People-pleasing is a deeply ingrained survival strategy, especially for women.
So when we finally start setting boundaries, it feels… uncomfortable. Even selfish.
But here’s the truth I’ve come to live by:
Setting boundaries is not selfish. It’s sacred.
Some people won’t like the new you. That doesn’t mean you’re wrong—it means your growth is disrupting their comfort zone. Let them adjust. Or let them go.

My Own Wake-Up Call
After my divorce, I had to learn how to set boundaries with people I once let too far in. I had to stop over-explaining. Stop rescuing. Stop saying yes when my whole body was screaming no.
I asked myself:
What do I truly need right now?
What am I no longer available for?
Where am I abandoning myself?
It was painful. But it was also the most powerful pivot of my life. I made room to hear myself again—and to finally respect the voice within.
How to Start Setting Boundaries (Without Burning Everything Down)
If you’re new to boundary setting, here’s a simple place to start:
1. Check in with your body.
Tight chest? Knot in your gut? Your body knows what a “no” feels like.
2. Use simple, kind language.
You don’t owe long explanations. Try:
→ “That doesn’t work for me.”
→ “I’m focusing on rest this weekend.”
→ “I’m not available for that right now.”
3. Expect some pushback.
That’s not a red flag—it’s proof your boundary is working.
4. Celebrate your growth.
Each time you hold a boundary, you teach the world how to treat you—and how you treat yourself.

Your Energy Is Sacred
You don’t have to earn rest. You don’t have to justify your needs. You don’t have to keep showing up for people who drain you.
Boundaries create freedom.
They make space for aligned relationships, deeper clarity, and the version of you who’s done apologizing for existing.
So if you’re in a season of unlearning, of reclaiming your voice, your body, or your peace—this is your sign:
Set the boundary. Hold the line. Come home to yourself.
Ready to do this work together?
DM me the word “SPACE” on Instagram @CoachJenRulon, and let’s talk about creating energetic boundaries that support the next version of you.
You’re not too much. You’re just no longer available for too little.
If you are looking for connection with women THIS December 2025 in Costa Rica, come join me and 12 amazing women, as we “Rise with the Tides.”