How to Set (and Hold) Boundaries as a Service-Based Entrepreneur with ADHD

How to Set (and Hold) Boundaries as a Service-Based Entrepreneur with ADHD

Having boundaries is important for everyone, but as an entrepreneur with ADHD, they as vital to avoid burnout! So let’s talk clear, firm, ADHD-friendly boundaries that make your life as an entrepreneur feel sustainable instead of overwhelming. If you’ve ever found yourself saying yes to too many clients, yes too many times to a specific client, undercharging for your work, or struggling to unplug at the end of the day, this one’s for you.

As a service-based entrepreneur with ADHD, setting boundaries can have us feeling like we are going to piss all of our clients off if we set them. But the truth is, boundaries are the key to protecting your energy, staying organized, and delivering your best work. Here’s a roadmap to help you set (and hold) boundaries like a pro:

1. Use an Online Scheduling Tool

If you take one thing from this article, I hope it’s this! An online scheduling tool like Calendly or Acuity can be your best friend. Not only will it save you so many back-and-forth communications trying to find a time that works for both of you, but it gets rid of the temptation to say yes to meeting outside of your hours. There’s also the added bonus that it eliminates the need to use rain power to do time zone conversions. 😆

With the right tool, you can also set it up so that when you add an event to your calendar, it blocks out the time in your scheduler. A few more benefits:

  • It makes it easy to change your hours without the need to communicate with everyone.

  • Can also link to payment software to collect payment at the time of booking for specific appointments.

  • It also makes things easier for your clients!

  • Ability to set up automated reminders, which is essential if you also work with ADHDers.

  • A client books an appt, it can be automatically added to your calendar!

I use Acuity and am happy with it, and all that it does to help me run my business and hold boundaries.

2. Don’t Be Available 24/7

This is your business, not a 24-hour diner. It’s okay to have boundaries around when you work. For example:

  • Only allow client bookings on certain days of the week (another plug for a scheduler).

  • Reserve one or two days for non-client-facing work.

  • Have a clear start and end time for your workday.

You can make things easier for yourself by not sharing a personal cell phone number with clients. But that doesn’t mean you have to leave all communications to email. I use an app called Voxer to allow my clients to send me text messages and voice memos. But, I set it up so that I don’t see the notifications after hours. I know myself well enough to know that if I see a notification, I will not be able to leave it for the next day so a setup like this is essential.

3. Set Clear Payment and Invoicing Terms

Money conversations can feel awkward, but they don’t have to be. Here’s how to handle payment boundaries like a boss:

  • Use a payment processor that automates invoices and reminders.

  • Set clear payment terms (e.g., payment is due within 7 days of receiving the invoice).

  • For recurring payments, look into setting them up so a client’s card is automatically charged so you save them time and yourself potential headaches.

  • Require deposits or upfront payments for certain projects, and don’t deliver all the goods until you have payment!

Spell it all out in your onboarding process so there are no surprises. And if someone misses a payment, send friendly reminder emails, followed by enforcing late fees if necessary. Your work is valuable, and you deserve to be paid on time.

4. Have a Contract That Spells Out the Scope of Work

A good contract is more than a legal document; it’s a boundary-setting tool. It defines what you’re doing (and what you’re not doing) so everyone’s on the same page.

Your contract should include:

  • A detailed description of the services you’re providing.

  • Deadlines and timelines.

  • Revision policies (e.g., how many rounds of edits are included).

  • Payment terms (see above).

Pro Tip: Make sure your contract includes a clause about scope creep. If a client asks for extra work outside the original agreement, you can refer back to the contract and negotiate additional fees.

5. Say No (and Feel Good About It)

Here’s the thing about ADHD: we’re people pleasers. But saying yes to every opportunity can leave you stretched thin and resentful. Practice saying no in a way that feels authentic and kind. For example:

  • “I’d love to help, but my schedule is fully booked right now.”

  • “That’s outside the scope of this project, but I’d be happy to discuss adding it for an additional fee.”

Saying no isn’t selfish. It’s self-preservation.

6. Turn Off Notifications

Every ping, buzz, or ding from your phone is an opportunity for distraction. Set boundaries with your tech by:

  • Turning off email notifications outside of work hours.

  • Setting up autoresponders to manage client expectations (e.g., “I’ll respond to your email within 48 hours”).

  • Using phone apps like Be Present to stay on task.

Boundaries with your devices = boundaries with your time.

7. Take Care of Yourself First

This one’s not negotiable. You can’t pour from an empty cup, and you definitely can’t run a business on burnout. Build self-care into your schedule:

  • Take regular breaks during the day. Setting alarms to help remind you can be helpful.

  • Set a hard stop time for work and try to stick to it most days.

  • Celebrate your wins, no matter how small.

When you take care of yourself, you’ll have the energy and focus to fully present to your clients.

Setting boundaries isn’t just about protecting your time and energy; it’s about creating a business that supports the life you want to live. And trust me, it’s worth it. Your ADHD brain will thank you, your clients will respect you, and you’ll finally feel like you’re running your business—not the other way around.

So, what boundary are you setting today?

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