That Boundary You Set at Work? Keep It.

By J. “RiRi” Foster, CPC

Let’s talk about workplace boundaries—especially for Black women, especially in environments where we’re expected to be everything for everyone.

The go-to. The fixer. The one who stays late, shows up early, and smiles through microaggressions.

But let me say this clearly:
That boundary you set? Keep it.

When you stopped answering emails after 6pm… that was self-respect.
When you corrected someone mispronouncing your name for the third time… that was reclaiming your identity.
When you said, “No, I’m not available to take that on,” without explaining your whole life story… that was revolutionary.

You are not here to be the office mom, therapist, secretary, or superhero.
You are allowed to have a job without it consuming your soul.

And I know what you’ve been told:
“That’s just how it is.”
“You don’t want to seem difficult.”
“You have to work twice as hard.”

But here’s the truth:
Working twice as hard doesn’t guarantee safety. It only guarantees burnout.

You don’t have to overextend yourself to prove your value.
Your rest is not a reward—it’s a requirement.
Your boundary is not an attitude problem—it’s a clarity upgrade.

The next time guilt creeps in after holding your line, remind yourself:
You were never hired to be invisible.
You were hired to bring your brilliance.
And brilliance shines brighter when it’s not being drained.

Hold that boundary.
You deserve a career that honors your wellness—not one that costs it.