Episode 76: When Saying No Becomes a Lifestyle—Rethinking Self-Care, Boundaries, and Belonging
Description
In this episode of Tales from The Lane, Kate takes a candid look at a growing trend: using self-care and boundaries as default reasons to opt out of opportunities, connection, and growth.
While the movement to prevent burnout was born out of necessity—helping leaders, parents, and professionals stretched impossibly thin—somewhere along the way, it became a lifestyle brand. And now, more and more early-career professionals are declining every extra task, gig, or invitation in the name of “protecting their peace,” only to find themselves feeling disconnected and unfulfilled.
Kate explores:
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Why self-care and boundaries matter (and where the movement started)
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How the pendulum has swung too far in the opposite direction
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How saying yes (even when it feels inconvenient) can build skills, networks, and community
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What the most fulfilled, high-achieving people do differently
If you’ve been wondering how to balance protecting your time with showing up fully for your life and your community, this conversation will help you reframe what it means to be both intentional and engaged.
Mentioned in this episode:
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Thrive by Arianna Huffington
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Essentialism by Greg McKeown
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Slow Productivity by Cal Newport
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Want more great tips on how you can continue to pursue excellence without burning out? Grab a copy of my new book, Beyond Potential: A Guide for Creatives Who Want to Re-Assess, Re-Define, and Re-Ignite Their Careers.
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