Why does nobody talk about setting client boundaries from day one? | Freelance Survival

Lee Sanchez · 2026-03-06T14:51:04.154859+00:00

I took on a client who would message me at all hours, even on weekends. It started to burn me out fast. So, I began stating my available hours in the first meeting. Now, they respect my time, and I can focus better. It's a simple step that made a huge difference.

wendyn576mo ago

Wait, they were messaging you on weekends? That’s crazy, I would have lost it. Good on you for saying something right away.

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betty_shah6mo ago

Being clear about my hours from day one changed everything.

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logan_schmidt5mo ago

Remember that one client who asked for a "quick logo" at 9 PM on a Friday? I told them my computer was off for the weekend, like @betty_shah said, setting that line early is key. They tried the same thing the next week, and I just didn't reply until Monday morning. After that, they got the message and only emailed during the day. It's wild how people will just assume you're always on call if you don't stop it fast.

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