Setting boundaries
Do you frequently feel disrespected? Taken for granted? Do you sometimes say yes when you want to say no? Do you feel guilty when you do something for yourself, or when you ask someone to do something for you?
If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, you might be suffering from a lack of personal boundaries.
What are boundaries? How do you set healthy boundaries with family, friends and co-workers? Most importantly, how do you set boundaries with yourself?
Boundaries are the mental, physical and emotional lines you draw to protect yourself from others. Boundaries are influenced by our cultural background, religion and gender differences. Many of us were taught that being agreeable and centering others’ needs is the acceptable way to live. But while being kind is a wonderful virtue, sacrificing yourself can lead to many negative consequences. These include fatigue, passive aggression, resentment and burnout.
Brene Brown says, “Daring to set boundaries is about having the courage to love ourselves, even when we risk disappointing others.” Growing your ability to set boundaries can boost your self-esteem, increase your sense of identity, and strengthen your relationships with family, friends and co-workers.
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If you’d like to learn more about boundaries, including some common myths and how to set healthy boundaries, join Amy Jackson, LCSW, MPH, on April 21 for an interactive webinar, How to draw the line...with kindness. You can unlearn years of poor boundary setting. Your energy, peace and happiness are worth the effort!