Stop Doing Work You Hate: A Real Talk About Boundaries, Reputation, and Growing Your Consulting Practice with Naomi Hattaway

Ever find yourself in the middle of a client project thinking "How did I end up here?" In this candid conversation, nonprofit transition specialist Naomi Hattaway shares how she learned to stop taking on work that drained her energy and started building a practice true to her expertise. From setting "riverbank boundaries" that protect your time while maintaining flexibility, to transforming her communication style with 20-minute meetings and voice messages, Naomi offers practical strategies for consultants ready to level up their business boundaries. Plus, she opens up about her journey to finally paying herself formally after 10 years in business, driven by a powerful personal mission.

If you've ever struggled with saying no to work outside your zone of genius or worried about damaging relationships by setting limits, this episode is your permission slip to reshape your consulting practice. Learn why your reputation isn't built on saying yes to everything, but rather on being known for specific, high-value work that energizes you. Naomi shares actionable examples of how to communicate boundaries professionally, refer work strategically, and build a business that serves both you and your clients better.

5 Key Takeaways:

• Define Your Lane Clearly Your reputation grows stronger when you're known for specific, focused work rather than trying to be everything to everyone
• Set "Riverbank" Boundaries Think of boundaries like riverbanks—firm enough to keep things flowing but flexible enough to adapt naturally
• Communicate Limits Upfront From 20-minute meetings to asynchronous communication, set expectations early about how you work best
• Make Strategic Referrals Build relationships with other consultants who can handle work outside your zone of genius
• Protect Your Reputation Be intentional about which projects you take on—they shape how others talk about your work

Find Us Online:  https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com

Connect with Naomi:  

Naomi’s Website:https://www.naomihattaway.com/ 

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/naomihattaway 

Podcast: https://www.naomihattaway.com/podcast 

Connect with Cindy:

Cindy Wagman Coaching: cindywagman.com

Fractional Fundraising Network: fractionalfundraising.co/

LinkedIn: ca.linkedin.com/in/cindywagman

Connect with Jess:

Out In the Boons: outintheboons.me

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jesscampbelloutntiheboons/

Resources:

Hood Wellness by Tamela J. Gordon

Heal Your Way Forward by Prentis Hemphill

Diary of a CEO Podcast

Building Better Together

Alison Davis’ Monthly Sales Roundtables