Last summer, while I was at the airport, one of my best friends and marketing operations director, Michael, was on the phone with me. As we talked, I shared something that had been weighing on me. It’s not uncommon for people I barely know—or don’t know at all—to reach out asking for a collaboration, a favor, or my thoughts on something. And the truth is, I love collaborating. I love exchanging ideas, sharing knowledge, and growing together with people who bring curiosity, generosity, and integrity to the table.
But there’s a problem. How do I know when someone genuinely wants to learn and grow together versus when someone just wants to take? How do I recognize when an opportunity is truly an exchange versus when it’s a one-sided extraction of my time and energy?
That day, as I expressed my frustration, Michael said something that stuck with me: "From now on, we work with Legends, not leeches."
It became our behind-the-scenes motto.
Recognizing the Right Collaborations
This past week, I spent time with one of my absolute favorite people and collaborators in the world, Maria Palomar. She is a true Legend. She pushes me to be and do my best, challenges me in the best ways, and inspires me to reach further. Maria is the kind of person who elevates every conversation, every project, and every moment spent together. She’s the kind of collaborator who gives as much as she takes, and her energy is contagious.
These are the people I want to work with. The ones who understand that collaboration is about mutual respect and shared growth. It’s about being surrounded by people who challenge you, contribute meaningfully, and recognize the effort that goes into creative exchange.
Setting Boundaries Without Losing Generosity
I never want to lose my enthusiasm for collaboration. But I’m trying to learn that setting clearer boundaries actually deepens the quality of my collaborations rather than limits them. So this is what I am currently working on:
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Discernment over obligation. Just because someone asks for your time doesn’t mean you are obligated to give it.
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Energy over expectation. Focus on the relationships that energize you, not the ones that drain you.
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Mutual growth over one-sided gain. Look for collaborations where all people walk away having gained something valuable.
This shift in perspective is something I’m still learning, but I can already feel the difference. It allows me to stay open and generous while also being intentional and discerning about where I invest my time.
Who Are the Legends in Your Life?
Think about the people in your life and work who elevate and inspire you. Who challenges you in the best ways? Who makes you feel seen and valued? Those are the legends.
And if you’ve ever felt drained, taken for granted, or undervalued in your generosity—know that it’s okay to step back. It’s okay to say no. It’s okay to save your energy for the people who will build something with you rather than just take from you.
Because from now on, we work with legends, not leeches.
With gratitude,
Christine
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