There are some people in our lives who just assume we’re always available, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. They think we’re their personal on-demand assistants, ready to drop everything to accommodate their whims. But we all know that’s just not sustainable, nor is it healthy. Learning to set boundaries with these people is essential for our own well-being.

One of the most common scenarios where we encounter this assumption is when they invite us to do something at an ungodly hour, like brunch at 8 am. Now, if you’re a morning person, that might not be an issue, but for many of us, that’s just too early. So, how do we handle these situations without offending the other person or disappointing them?

Here’s the thing: you don’t owe anyone an explanation for setting boundaries. You don’t have to justify why you can’t make it or why you need your sleep. You can simply say:

Hey, I appreciate the invite, but I’m not a morning person, so I’ll have to pass. Maybe we can catch up another time?

I need some downtime in the mornings to get myself going, but let’s grab lunch or dinner instead?

I’m trying to prioritize self-care, so I’m not committing to any early morning plans for now. But I’d love to see you later in the day!

Notice how these responses acknowledge the invitation, express gratitude, and then set a clear boundary. You’re not obligated to justify why you can’t make it; you’re simply stating your availability.

Now, let’s say they push back or try to guilt-trip you into changing your mind. This is where it’s essential to stand firm and politely reiterate your boundary. You can say:

I understand you’re excited, but I really need my sleep. Maybe we can plan something else that works better for both of us?

I appreciate your persistence, but I’ve got to prioritize my own needs right now. Let’s catch up soon, but not at 8 am!

I get that you want to hang out, but I’m not in a place to compromise on my sleep schedule. Can we look at other options?

Remember, setting boundaries is not about being selfish; it’s about being realistic and honest about your capabilities. You can’t pour from an empty cup, after all!

What if they continue to push or try to make you feel guilty? That’s when it’s essential to employ a gentle-but-firm tone and reiterate your boundary one more time. You can say:

I understand we have different schedules, and that’s okay. I’m not able to accommodate an 8 am brunch, and that’s not going to change. Maybe we can try something else?

I’m not trying to be difficult, but I need to prioritize my own needs. Let’s focus on finding a better time that works for both of us()

I appreciate your understanding, and I’m happy to hang out at a different time that suits me better. Let’s look forward to that!

In conclusion, learning to set boundaries with people who assume you’re available 24/7 is a crucial self-care skill. It takes practice, patience, and empathy, but it’s essential for maintaining your own well-being. Remember, you don’t have to justify your boundaries; you simply need to communicate them clearly and politely. By doing so, you’re not only taking care of yourself but also teaching others to respect your time and energy.

Be kind ❤