Stop Apologising: Set Boundaries and Protect Your Energy
Do you find yourself constantly saying yes when you want to say no? Apologising when you've done nothing wrong? Feeling drained from people-pleasing or afraid of disappointing others?
You're not alone—and it's time to take your power back.
Episode 6 - Self Defence for Women Podcast
Emotional self defence begins with self-worth, confidence, and the courage to stop apologising, set boundaries, and protect your energy.
Why Confidence, Self-Worth and Boundaries Are the Foundation of Emotional Self Defence
In this episode of Self Defence for Women – Live an Empowered Life, Julie Waite and elite self defence expert Dene Josham dive deep into the mindset and emotional patterns that hold people back from setting boundaries and protecting their energy.
They explore the internalised guilt, fear of conflict, and self-doubt that often stop women—and men—from asserting themselves and explain how these emotional habits are just as important to address as physical safety strategies.
This isn’t about being aggressive—it’s about being empowered.
Letting Go of Guilt and Embracing Self-Worth
Julie and Dene unpack why so many people feel uncomfortable putting themselves first and how social conditioning teaches us to shrink ourselves to make others comfortable.
They explain how recognising your self-worth, using your voice, and building inner confidence are all powerful tools for emotional self defence—and why this mindset is critical for staying safe in the real world.
Key Takeaways from This Episode
Listeners will gain insights into:
Why self defence starts with mindset and self-worth
How to let go of guilt and stop over-apologising
Why saying no is a self defence skill—not a selfish act
The link between emotional patterns and personal safety
How to build confidence in your voice, space, and boundaries
Why putting others first can be dangerous—and how to stop
Tools to help you reclaim your energy, peace, and presence.
Empower Yourself from the Inside Out
By the end of this episode, you’ll feel encouraged to start setting clear boundaries, speaking up without guilt, and protecting your energy like your safety depends on it—because it does.
Listen now and start showing up for yourself with confidence and strength.
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SUPPORT
If any part of this episode felt triggering or brought up difficult emotions, please know you're not alone.
It's okay to pause, take a breath, and reach out for support.
**Remember, the only person responsible for abuse is the perpetrator—** the victim is never to blame, regardless of the choices they made.
We’ve put together a list of trusted resources where you can get help and speak to someone in confidence.
Visit our support page for help and guidance.
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