In this podcast episode of Promoted: Stop Doubting, Start Leading, Karen Gombault dives into the leadership essential no one talks about enough—protecting your energy through clear, actionable boundaries.

Whether you're stepping into a new role or leading at a higher level, your ability to stay grounded, focused, and well-rested isn't optional—it's strategic. Karen shares powerful personal stories and practical examples from her executive career to help you avoid burnout, stay intentional, and create a culture of respect around you.

This episode kicks off a new mini-series on workplace wellness—starting with one of the most powerful tools in your leadership toolbox: boundaries.

5 KEY TAKEAWAYS:

1. Boundaries aren’t barriers—they’re leadership tools. Knowing what you’ll accept and not accept at work protects your energy and keeps you in the game long-term.
2. Start with self-respect. If someone cuts you off in a meeting or yells, use your voice calmly and clearly: “Excuse me, I haven’t finished.”
3. Consistency builds culture. Start meetings on time, stick to your rules, and expect the same from others—it sets the tone for how people show up.
4. You teach people how to treat your time. Even in leadership, you can—and should—say, “I have five minutes,” to protect your focus and flow.
5. Fuzzy boundaries are still boundaries. Give yourself grace with the 80/20 rule—be firm most of the time, flexible when it truly matters.

“It is your job as the boss of yourself to set that boundary, to communicate it, and to know also when you accept that the boundary is fuzzy.” – Karen Gombault

Protecting your wellness at work isn’t optional—it’s your responsibility.

This episode invites you to take radical ownership of your energy and leadership presence. Whether it’s saying no to after-hours client calls or insisting on respectful meeting behavior, the first boundary you set might just be the most powerful step you take this week.

RESOURCES & NEXT STEPS:

Free Resource: Build Your Visibility At Work → https://www.karengombault.com/getnoticed

Start with Catalyst – A focused 6-week coaching sprint to solve one real leadership challenge with strategy, momentum, and results. Learn more: https://www.karengombault.com/catalyst

Go deeper with 1:1 Executive Coaching – My high-level, science-backed coaching partnership to lead with unshakeable confidence and protect your energy while delivering at the top. https://www.karengombault.com/privatecoaching

Connect with Karen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karengombault/