Instant gratification is not written in the contract, is it? 

Your days are often filled with endless questions, deadlines, and demands. 

It’s a rewarding career, but it can also be overwhelming and exhausting. In the middle of it all, it’s easy to forget about your own needs, especially when it comes to your health and well-being.

You don’t have to be accessible to everyone at all times. 

Read that again.

You don’t have to be accessible to everyone at all times. 

Instant gratification is not guaranteed, nor is it your responsibility. Building a strong client relationship is key, and it takes time and patience. It’s important to focus on delivering exceptional service while setting realistic expectations of the journey ahead. 

Your clients may have urgent requests or last-minute changes, but it’s crucial to establish boundaries and communicate your availability. You deserve time for yourself, to recharge and prioritize your own well-being.

When you’re constantly putting everyone else’s needs above your own, it can feel next to impossible to actually prioritize your health needs and goals. The truth is, self-care often takes a backseat in the wedding industry. 

But here’s the thing: you can’t pour from an empty cup. 

Your health and well-being are essential for your success, both personally and professionally. Neglecting your own needs will only lead to burnout and potentially compromise the quality of your work.

So, how can you find a way to prioritize your health while still excelling in your career? 

It starts with a shift in mindset. 

Recognize that self-care is not selfish; it’s necessary. 

Taking care of yourself allows you to show up as your best self for your clients, providing them with the exceptional service they deserve. By investing in your own well-being, you’re not only benefiting yourself but also your business.

So what are realistic expectations?

Who knows.

And honestly it depends.

When you establish your own boundaries those are REALISTIC to you.  And you create the threshold of what  you will accept, not only from yourself but from your couples as well.  

It’s comes very naturally to you to want to go above and beyond for your clients, to make sure their vision comes to life.  Well, however close you can get, whatever is within your control.  

It’s important to set realistic expectations right from the start. 

Communicate clearly with your clients about your availability and response times, establishing boundaries that align with your personal needs and well-being. Remember that you are human, and it’s impossible to be accessible 24/7 without sacrificing your own mental and physical health. By managing expectations and openly discussing your availability, you create a healthier dynamic that respects both your clients’ needs and your own.

Define your boundaries

Take the time to reflect on what boundaries are important to you and your well-being. Consider factors such as your preferred working hours, response times, and availability. Identify specific areas where you feel overwhelmed or overextended and determine what limits you need to put in place to address those concerns. This could include designating specific times for client communication, setting realistic deadlines, or clearly communicating your availability for meetings and events.

Communicate your boundaries

Once you have established your boundaries, communicate them to your clients and colleagues. Clearly express your availability and response times, whether it’s through email signatures, automated messages, or direct conversations. Explain the reasons behind your boundaries, emphasizing that they are in place to ensure the quality of your work and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Setting expectations upfront helps manage client’s and colleague’s expectations and reduces the likelihood of misunderstandings or unrealistic demands. Define it in the contract you both sign.

Stick to your boundaries 

Setting boundaries is one thing, but it’s equally important to uphold them consistently. 

Respect yourself.  

Respect your own limits.

Stick to the boundaries you’ve established. 

Avoid the temptation to constantly check your work emails or respond to client requests outside of your designated working hours. When you honor your boundaries, you are not only protecting your personal time but also reinforcing the value of your own well-being and the quality of your services. Be firm yet professional when enforcing your boundaries and kindly remind clients or colleagues of your established 

guidelines if they inadvertently push past them.

By following these simple but necessary steps and staying committed to your boundaries, you can create a healthier and more sustainable work environment that aligns with your personal needs and well-being as a wedding professional.

Your clients will benefit from your renewed energy and passion, and you’ll be able to bring their wedding dreams to life while also, finally, taking care of yourself.

Don’t let the demands of your profession continue to take a toll on your well-being. Take a step towards a healthier, more fulfilling career & life by applying to the SHINE Method 1:1 Nutrition Coaching. 

Together, we’ll create a lasting routine that allows you to shine both personally and professionally.