Having healthy boundaries is a key aspect of keeping well and happy and we need them in all of our relationships. See if you relate to the descriptions below:
Boundaries at work
Have you ever had a night out with work colleagues and then found yourself full of regrets or perhaps confided something personal to someone at work then wondered if you should have opened up?
Healthy boundaries at work include knowing who to trust with personal information and how to socialise without compromising your reputation or professionalism.
Boundaries in relationships
Some people find it hard to say no. This can lead to doing too much for others, doing things you don’t want to do, taking on excessive tasks or activities and not having time for yourself.
Looking after others can be a positive attribute but needs to be balanced with your own self-care.
Here are some simple steps towards having positive boundaries.
Start by being aware of your reactions.
For example: A friend, family member or partner asks you to do something for them or with them. Your instincts are to say “no” but you hear yourself saying “yes”. You later feel resentful or put upon and wonder why this keeps happening.
Practice being assertive.
Start with people you encounter in everyday life and then experiment with those in your inner circle. Tune into that initial reaction discussed in the point above and try to say it out loud.
Know your personal values
This creates an understanding of what is important to you and an awareness of why you may feel uncomfortable with certain behaviours or decisions.
It can be liberating to exercise healthy boundaries and will contribute to making your relationships more authentic and fulfilling.