Why You Can't Hold Boundaries (Even When You Know What They Are)

Clarity to Clients: For Coaches, Consultants & Course Creators Who Want More Clients Without the Chaos

Clarity to Clients: For Coaches, Consultants & Course Creators Who Want More Clients Without the Chaos
Why You Can't Hold Boundaries (Even When You Know What They Are)
Jan 29, 2026 Episode 12
Jessica Downing

You know what your boundaries are. You've thought them through, named them, maybe even rehearsed what you'd say. But when the moment comes… your body takes over. You over-explain. You soften. You say yes when you mean no.

If that sounds familiar, this episode is for you.

Today I'm sharing why this happens—and it's not a willpower problem. It's a nervous system problem. I'll walk you through the 5-step framework I use to work with my nervous system instead of against it, so boundaries actually become possible in real moments.

In this episode, you'll learn:

  • Why boundaries get harder when you're already overwhelmed
  • What your nervous system is actually doing in boundary moments
  • The 5 steps to hold boundaries without the guilt, spiraling, or over-explaining
  • Simple body-based tools to stay present through discomfort
  • How to help your nervous system update so new patterns stick

Key Takeaway: We don't force change. We train safety.

Download the Free Guide: 5 Steps for When You Know Your Boundaries—But Can't Hold Them

This isn't a read-once kind of guide. It's designed to be used in real moments—when a client asks for more, when a conversation gets hard, when you feel that familiar pull to over-explain or give in.

Download it free → jessicadowningcoaching.com/boundaryguide

Share This Episode: Know someone who's been over-giving, over-explaining, or carrying too much? Send them this episode—sometimes just knowing you're not alone is enough to shift everything.

Connect with Me: hello@jessicadowningcoaching.com or at jessicadowningcoaching.com

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