Not Overgiving: Protecting Your Peace Without Apology
- Sheridan Labbe
- Oct 30
- 2 min read
Because protecting your peace is the ultimate form of self-love.
Boundaries are for you.
I think of them as personal security for your nervous system — a way to regulate how much of yourself, your time, energy, resources, and money you’re willing to give. Setting that standard ensures you’re protecting your most important investment: yourself.
For some of us, setting boundaries comes easily — we grew up in environments that encouraged us to assert ourselves and advocate for our needs. For others, it feels daunting, almost like a radical act of self-love.
Wherever you are on your journey, remember: you are not selfish for wanting to protect yourself.
Boundaries as a Practice
Throughout my journey of womanhood, boundaries have been a recurring test — one I’m getting better at with time. It’s true that setting them can shift the dynamics of a relationship. But I’ve made peace with that. If a boundary changes the nature of a connection, then it’s revealing that it was never sustainable without one.
There were times I wanted to appear selfless, accommodating, or noble — so I overgave when I had nothing left to give. In those moments, I realized boundaries aren’t restrictions; they’re self-protection. By honoring them, I’m safeguarding my nervous system. Because let’s be real — how many times has a lack of boundaries led us straight to burnout, resentment, and disappointment?
10 Boundaries to Consider in Your Self-Care Routine
Honor your digital downtime. Don’t answer calls or texts outside your chosen hours. It’s okay to be unavailable — rest doesn’t require an explanation.
Guard your personal information. No one — parents, friends, coworkers — are entitled to access the parts of your life you choose to keep private.
Protect your money. Whether it’s splitting a dinner bill or loaning family money, you decide. Your finances are yours to manage, not to prove generosity.
Decide how your circles overlap. It’s okay to keep friend groups separate. Protect the energies that serve you best.
Honor your current season. Some chapters are for expansion — others are for retreat. Let your calendar match your capacity.
Your home is sacred. Mi casa does not always mean su casa. Choose who has access to your space.
You can change your mind. Growth gives you new information. You’re allowed to evolve your “yes” into a “no.”
Keep your sensual energy intentional. Your body, your attention, your allure — they’re powerful currencies. You decide when, how, and with whom to share them.
Don’t apologize for rest. You don’t owe anyone productivity. Choosing rest is choosing longevity.
Let silence speak for you. You don’t have to explain every boundary you set. Sometimes, your distance is the answer.
A Living Practice
Be patient with yourself as you discover what boundaries feel right for you. They’ll evolve with each season of your life. Boundaries aren’t law — they’re living guidelines that serve who you are right now.
In a perfect world, everyone would respect them. But even when they don’t, you can still honor them for yourself. That’s where real self-trust begins.
✨ Share this if you’re learning to protect your peace — and remind another woman that self-preservation is not selfish.
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