Boundaries are about setting personal limits and is essential for building & maintaining healthy relationships!
Are you not sure about how to create boundaries? Or effectively uphold existing ones? Here is a great way to help you look at ways to improve your boundaries!
To successfully introduce and set boundaries, it’s key to understand why they’re each important to you and how they will benefit your emotional well-being.
One way to better understand boundaries is to take time to do some self reflection when you are in a situation that feels uncomfortable. When events happen, it is critical to think about why something is making you feel uncomfortable or "off."
Boundaries tend to become easier to set the more you practice and implement as well as the more you identify your personal areas that need attention.
START SMALL
It often feels uncomfortable if boundary-setting is new to you. People can feel guilt or uncertainty and it is important that you move forward at a comfortable pace so you can make the changes you need.
SET BOUNDARIES EARLY
By setting boundaries and expectations from the very beginning, everyone knows where they stand, and feelings of hurt, confusion, and frustration can be lessened.
BE CONSISTENT
Letting boundaries slide can be confusing for both you and the person the boundary is for! Consistency helps to reinforce your threshold and beliefs and maintains the lines are clear.
CREATE A FRAMEWORK
Boundaries can vary depending on the type of relationship. Pay attention to how you feel around different people in sharing your space or information. Expectations are a significant piece of setting boundaries. Think of it as a baseline. Different people or different circumstances might require modifications or adjustments to the boundaries you previously set. When you set boundaries, it help you to feel EMPOWERED! You are setting aside space and communicating clearly what is important to you!
What about communication?
Communication is critical in the world of boundaries, especially if someone consistently oversteps yours. While you might need to raise your concerns, these discussions need not be confrontational. Practicing how you communicate is a big key in navigating your boundaries!
It is also important to recognize the boundaries of others
In addition to setting your own boundaries, it’s important to appreciate those of others, too — even if they’re different from your own. If you or others are repeatedly violating boundaries can breed resentment and contempt, and cause people to withdraw. So how we communicate, and especially communicate boundaries, are very important!
Boundaries are essential for various reasons and look different to everyone. Don’t feel guilty about setting boundaries. They’re essentially a form of self-care. It might take some time and consideration to decipher the boundaries most important to you and the best ways to implement them, but your mental well-being will appreciate the effort in the long run.
This book by Dr. Henry Cloud is a popular one that make boundaries easy! Grab your Boundaries Book HERE to learn more!
------------------>Let me know! Where do you struggle with boundaries?
If you're a mom, chances are you've said this phrase a million times: "I'm fine." You say it when your kids ask how you're feeling, when your partner asks how your day was, and even when your friends or family members inquire about your well-being. But the truth is, you're probably not fine. (Guilty!) You're exhausted, anxious, and maybe even a little bit resentful. So what can you do to take care of yourself? Here are 5 wellness tips for the exhausted mom.
1. Get enough sleep. This may seem like an impossible feat, but it's important to try to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep each night. If your kids are keeping you up at night, try to nap during the day when they're napping or in school. And if all else fails, coffee is always an option.
2. Eat healthy. Again, this one may be easier said than done, but it's important to fuel your body with nutritious foods. When you're tired, it's easy to reach for unhealthy junk food, but resist the temptation! Eating healthy will give you more energy in the long run.
3. Exercise. Yes, exercise is hard when you're tired, but it's worth it! Exercise releases endorphins that help improve your mood and alleviate stress. Besides, getting out of the house and moving your body is a great way to get some fresh air and clear your head.
4. Take breaks. When you're constantly on the go, it's important to schedule in some time for yourself. Whether it's taking a bath, reading a book, or going for a walk by yourself, taking breaks will help you recharge and refocus.
5. Seek professional help if necessary. If you find that you're struggling to cope with anxiety or depression, don't be afraid to seek professional help from a therapist or counselor. Mental health is just as important as physical health!
If you need support on your journey, let's chat. My passion is helping exhausted, anxious mamas conquer burnout and achieve better health and balance in their lives. You can achieve the balance you are looking for. <3
xoxo, Judith
