The Clara James Approach to learning

Why Setting Boundaries Makes You a Better Tutor

Dawn Strachan

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0:00 | 10:21

When we first start tutoring, most of us say yes to everything.

One more lesson. One more family. One more evening. One more Saturday morning.

After all, we became tutors because we want to help.

But over time, without clear boundaries, the business we love can slowly begin to take over our lives.

In this episode, I share some of the lessons I've learned over the past 14 years about setting boundaries as a tutor, including:

• Deciding how many students you're willing to support before your diary fills up
• Managing cancellations whilst remaining compassionate
• Why payment policies matter
• The hidden dangers of being "too flexible"
• How boundaries can actually make you a better tutor

Most importantly, we'll explore why being helpful and being professional are not opposites.

Tutoring is one of the most rewarding careers I know, but if you want to enjoy it for years rather than months, boundaries matter.

If you're considering becoming a tutor yourself, I also have a few free copies left of my book, Become a Tutor. Build Confidence. Change Lives.

It's the book I wish someone had given me when I first started and contains many of the lessons I've learned along the way.

If you'd like a copy, simply email me at info@clarajamestutoring.co.uk with your postal address and I'll happily pop one in the post for you.

I hope you enjoy the episode.