As women in business, we’re often conditioned to be everything to everyone, to carry it all with grace, grit, and a smile but somewhere along the way, I realised that I was apologising for things that were, in fact, sacred: my energy, my joy, my boundaries, my wellbeing.
I created Studio Kynd not just to design beautiful brands, but to live and work in alignment and to help other women do the same. That meant unlearning a few things and rewriting my own rules for success.
Here's what I no longer apologise for as a female founder who is choosing sustainability, not just in business, but in life.
( Setting Boundaries )
Boundaries have become one of the greatest forms of self-respect I practice. I used to feel bad for saying no, or for not replying to every message the moment it arrived. Now, I honour my energy by creating space to rest, dream, and focus. Boundaries allow me to show up better, not less and let’s be honest, no one’s business thrives on burnout.
( Taking Breaks and Actually Enjoying Them )
There was a time when I believed rest needed to be earned. That breaks were a sign of laziness, or worse, weakness. But now I know the truth: Breaks are where the magic happens.
When I pause to stretch, walk, or simply breathe, I return to my desk with a mind that’s calmer, clearer, and infinitely more creative. Presence > pressure. Always.
( Practising Self-Care Without Guilt )
Self-care isn’t selfish, it’s strategic. It’s the thing that keeps me grounded through launches, emails, Zoom calls, and design deadlines. Whether it’s a slow morning with a matcha, a midweek massage, or switching off my phone before 8 p.m., I no longer apologise for honouring what I need to feel good in my body and mind because when I thrive, my business thrives too.
( Asking for Help )
I used to carry everything alone. Delegating felt like failing, like I had something to prove. But over time, I’ve learned that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness. It creates space. It builds trust. It lets others rise. From hiring support to leaning on mentors, I no longer apologise for not doing it all myself. Because success doesn’t have to mean solitary.
( Prioritising My Health )
There is no badge of honour in burnout. As a former nurse, I’ve seen firsthand the cost of ignoring your body’s whispers. And as a business owner, I’ve felt it too, the headaches, the tiredness, the emotional fatigue that creeps in when you’re running on empty. Now, my health is my baseline. It’s the foundation I build from and I protect it fiercely.
(. Embracing Imperfection )
Perfection was the lie that kept me small. It told me I wasn’t ready. That things needed to be better before I could begin. But here’s what I know now:
Showing up imperfectly might be the most powerful thing you ever do.
We are human before we are entrepreneurs. And in the messiness of trying, failing, adjusting, and growing, that’s where connection lives. That’s where courage begins.
So here’s what we’re no longer apologising for:
Existing.
Having boundaries.
Saying no.
Standing up for ourselves.
Putting our own needs first.
Being different.
Being successful.
Being happy.
Loving ourselves.
If you’re a woman running a business and wondering whether it’s okay to honour yourself in the process, this is your permission slip. Not only is it okay, it’s essential.
With love,
Niobe x
