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Are You Over-Delivering or Just Delivering What’s Necessary? The Art of Aligned Action

Writer's picture: Rafaele TadieloRafaele Tadielo

woman in yoga pose

I’ve been criticised a fair bit in my life. Some of my coaches, co-workers, or even friends have told me that I “over-deliver” to my clients.


They look at my sessions—which are supposed to last 60 minutes but sometimes stretch up to two hours—and they shake their heads. “You’re doing too much,” they say. “You need to set boundaries, or people will take advantage of you.”


And for a while, I took that criticism to heart. I tried to follow their advice, cutting sessions short because the clock said so, even when I felt there was more to do, more to uncover, more to give.


But something didn’t sit right.


You see, when I looked at the results my clients were getting, it became clear to me: I wasn’t over-delivering.


I was delivering what was necessary. If staying an extra 30 minutes could create a breakthrough, spark a mindset shift, or help my client see herself  in a way she’d never dared to before, why wouldn’t I?


It’s not about doing more for the sake of it. It’s about showing up fully for the moment, delivering the value that’s truly needed.


And if that moment calls for a little extra time, energy, or care, so be it.


Over-Delivering vs. Delivering What’s Necessary


This idea isn’t just about coaching. It’s something we all face at work, in our relationships, or even with friends and family.


When does “going the extra mile” become too much? And when is it just what’s needed to align with your values and show up as your best self?


To figure that out, you have to ask yourself two key questions:


Can I go the extra mile to make a real difference in the outcome I want? Or is it time to stick with the clock and recharge myself?


How can I approach this with excellence and awareness? Or is it time to say no?


Aligned action isn’t about bending over backwards to please others or ignoring your own needs.


It’s about giving your best from a place of clarity and abundance.


Let’s explore what this looks like in real life.


Aligned Action in Different Areas of Life


With Your Partner

Imagine your partner comes home after a tough day at work. You’ve had a busy day too, and all you really want to do is veg out in front of the TV.


But instead, you choose to sit with them, ask how they’re feeling, and really listen. That’s not “over-delivering.” That’s showing up in a way that strengthens your connection.


But if you’re feeling utterly drained, aligned action might mean letting them know you’re not in the best place to support them right now.


The truth is, sometimes you just can’t help, and that’s okay. Trying to show up when your energy is low doesn’t help anyone—it only creates frustration and resentment.


With Your Kids

When your child is struggling with homework, it’s tempting to just solve the problem for them.


But what if instead, you spend extra time helping them understand the process, even if it takes longer?


That’s delivering what’s necessary—not just for the assignment, but for their confidence and independence.


However, if they’re asking for help while you’re trying to meet your own deadlines, aligned action might mean saying no and encouraging them to problem-solve on their own.


Teaching them to respect boundaries is part of helping them grow.


At Work

Maybe your boss asks you to prepare a presentation, and you know you could throw something together in an hour.


But instead, you spend an extra evening refining it, adding insights that could make a real difference to the team.


Some might say you’re “over-delivering,” but if it feels aligned with your values—like showing up with excellence—it’s not over-delivering. It’s doing what’s necessary to feel proud of your work.


That said, if this extra effort is being expected all the time without proper recognition or reward, it might not be aligned action.


Giving free work to others without any gain for yourself isn’t alignment—it’s exploitation.


With Friends

Your friend is going through a hard time and keeps venting to you. You want to support them, but you also have your own limits.


Aligned action might mean listening and offering advice—but it might also mean stepping back and being honest that you don’t have the emotional capacity to help.


Sometimes, people will try to pull more energy from you than you can give. I


t’s not about being mean or selfish—it’s about recognising that aligned action moves the needle forward, for both you and them.


With Your Clients

This one hits close to home for me. As a coach, I’ve learned that aligned action sometimes means breaking the “rules.”


If a session runs over because my client is on the edge of a breakthrough, I choose to stay present.


Why? Because their growth and transformation are what truly matter, and I’d never compromise that for the sake of the clock.


At the same time, I’m mindful not to let every session run long or to give endlessly without ensuring my own energy is protected. Balance is key.


How to Implement Aligned Action


Check In With Yourself

Before you say yes to something—or before you decide to go “above and beyond”—ask yourself: Is this truly aligned with the outcome I want? Am I in a good place to give my best?


Recognise When to Say No

Aligned action doesn’t mean saying yes to every opportunity. Sometimes, the most aligned thing you can do is say no and protect your energy.


Giving more than you can afford to isn’t noble—it’s draining.


Focus on the Bigger Picture

Aligned action often means thinking long-term. If going the extra mile now creates meaningful results, it’s worth it.


If it’s just about meeting someone else’s demands, it probably isn’t.


Aligned Action is a Mindset


Here’s the truth: when you act in alignment with your values, your energy shifts. You stop second-guessing yourself.


You stop worrying about what others think. You start feeling proud of the way you show up—for yourself, your family, your clients, and everyone else in your life.


This mindset will carry you further than any to-do list or time limit ever could. Because when you show up fully, you’re not just delivering—you’re creating magic. And that’s where real results happen.


So the next time you wonder if you’re over-delivering, pause. Reflect. Can you go the extra mile to make a real difference? Or is it time to recharge, step back, and say no?


When you act with awareness and intention, aligned action will always guide you to the right path.


If you're ready to create your aligned journey and step into your purpose, book your FREE call now. Let's explore how we can make magic happen together!


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