Do you tend to use the words free time and availability interchangeably? I did too. Turns out, free time and availability are NOT the same thing. I know it sounds obvious, but if you’re anything like me—especially as a childfree entrepreneur juggling a million things—it’s easy to blur those lines. And when that happens, burnout sneaks in before you even realize it. So, let’s chat about free time vs availability and how they can help you protect their energy and create better work-life balance.
Why We Get Mixed Up
I totally get it. Sometimes it feels like saying no is hard. Maybe you worry about disappointing someone, or you’re used to being the “yes” person. Working from home blurs the lines even more, making it seem like you’re always available. And when you don’t have kids, people might assume you have endless time to spare. But that’s just not true, and it’s okay to say so.
Why It Matters
Protecting your free time isn’t selfish—it’s essential. It prevents burnout, boosts your creativity, and models healthy boundaries for everyone around you. When you respect your own time and others’, you build trust and create a more balanced life.
You didn’t start your business or hustle just to feel drained all the time. You’re here to create a life and work that energizes you, not one that wears you down. But if you treat every empty moment on your calendar as an open invitation for others, you’ll never get the rest and recharge you need. That’s why it’s crucial to protect your free time and set clear boundaries around your availability.
What is Free Time vs. Availability?
Think of your free time as your personal sanctuary. A sacred space just for you to breathe, recharge, and do whatever makes your soul happy (yes, even if that’s just doing nothing). Availability, on the other hand, is the time you choose to offer others—clients, friends, family—for calls, meetings, or hangouts.
Just because your calendar looks empty doesn’t mean you’re “on call” or ready to jump at every request.
Free Time: This is your personal time to relax, recharge, and do what fuels your creativity and happiness. It’s sacred and non-negotiable.
Availability: This is the time you consciously offer others for meetings, calls, or socializing. It’s a choice, not a default.
I Made the Same Mistakes
The first time I told a client, “I’m not available during that time, but I can meet tomorrow,” I was nervous. I thought they’d be upset. Instead, they respected it—and I realized the only person who needed convincing was me.
And early on, I’d text my biz bestie at all hours, assuming she’d be thrilled to brainstorm anytime. She gently said, “Evenings are my time to unplug.” That moment made me realize I was doing exactly what I didn’t want others doing to me.
How I Learned to Protect My Free Time vs Availability
I used to think an empty calendar meant I was slacking. If a client wanted a last-minute call or a friend wanted to meet up, I’d say yes—even if I’d planned to read, walk, or just decompress. Spoiler alert: that led straight to burnout.
Then I started blocking out my free time like it was a meeting I couldn’t miss. I’d put “personal Time” on my calendar and actually stick to it. And guess what? My creativity soared, my energy came back, and I felt happier. Not just as an entrepreneur, but as a person.
Here’s How You Can Do It, Too
- Start Small and Build Your Boundary Muscle – You don’t have to overhaul your entire schedule overnight. Start with something manageable—like a 10-minute break, a short walk, or one evening a week just for you1. These small pockets of protected time add up and help you build the habit of honoring your own needs.
- Block Your Free Time Like a Meeting – Put it on your calendar with a clear label like “Do Not Book” or “Personal Recharge.” Treat it as seriously as a client call or deadline. If others see you as “busy,” they’re less likely to assume you’re available.
- Communicate Your Boundaries Clearly – Let people know when you’re available and when you’re not. For example, say, “I’m available for meetings between 10 am and 4 pm,” or “Evenings are my downtime.” This sets expectations and reduces those awkward last-minute requests.
- Practice Saying No (and Mean It) – You don’t owe anyone an explanation beyond, “I’m not available then.” Saying no is a skill—and it’s essential for protecting your energy and avoiding burnout. The more you practice, the easier it gets.
- Use Technology to Your Advantage – Turn off notifications during your free time. Use scheduling apps that only show your true availability. Automate repetitive tasks to free up more time for what matters.
- Prioritize and Plan Your Day Around Your Natural Rhythms – Map out your most important tasks when you’re at your best energy-wise. For many entrepreneurs, that might be early morning or late evening. Then, schedule your free time during your natural downtime.
- Check In With Yourself Regularly – Notice when you feel stretched thin, overwhelmed, or resentful. These feelings are your body’s way of telling you to reinforce your boundaries. Adjust your schedule as needed to protect your well-being.
What This Looks Like in Action
Before, I’d say yes to last-minute calls or meetups even when I’d planned downtime. That led to burnout and drained creativity. Now, I block free time on my calendar and say things like, “I’m not available this afternoon, but I can meet in the morning.” It feels empowering, and my energy has bounced back big time.
Your Next Steps
- Pick one small thing to protect your free time this week—a walk, a no-phone hour, or an evening off.
- Practice saying “no” to one request that doesn’t fit your schedule.
- Reach out and ask someone, “When’s a good time for you?” before jumping into a conversation. Preferably using a booking tool like Calendly or Tidycal.
You deserve to live and work on your terms, with energy and joy—not exhaustion. Protect your free time fiercely and watch how your productivity and happiness soar.
What’s one thing you’re going to do this week just for you? And how will you respect someone else’s free time? Drop your thoughts below.