On Boundaries

.As someone who used to be a chronic people-pleaser and avoider of conflicts, learning to set and respect boundaries has been a game-changer for me, both personally and professionally.

First, let me tell you something: setting boundaries is hard. It's hard because it requires us to acknowledge our own needs and limitations and to communicate them in a way that may not always be well-received or understood by others. It's hard because it may mean saying no to people we care about or risking rejection or disapproval. And it's hard because it may challenge us to confront our own fears, insecurities, and biases.

But here's what I've learned: setting boundaries is also incredibly liberating, empowering, and rewarding. It allows us to understand ourselves better, and to make choices that reflect our core values and priorities. It enables us to build healthier relationships, based on mutual respect, honesty, and empathy. And it helps us to avoid burnout, resentment, and regret, and instead to live with purpose, passion, and joy.

Of course, setting boundaries is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and it may look different for each of us. For me, it has meant learning to say no to social events that drain my energy, to set clear expectations with my colleagues and clients, and to prioritize my own self-care routines, even when it means disappointing others. It has also meant learning to ask for help when I need it, to express my emotions in a constructive way, and to be open to feedback and criticism, while still honoring my own values and opinions.

 Now, I don't claim to have all the answers when it comes to boundaries, and I still struggle with them at times. But I do believe that by sharing our experiences and insights with each other, we can create a community of support and inspiration, and help each other to grow and thrive. So, I encourage you to reflect on your own boundaries today, and to ask yourself: What am I saying yes to that I want to say no to? What am I saying no to that I want to say yes to? And what steps can I take to honor these boundaries in a way that feels authentic and respectful to myself and to others?

 Thanks for reading, and I wish you all a fulfilling journey of boundary-setting and self-discovery.

 Warmly, Robyn