Calling all my people-pleasers! Today, we are talking all things BOUNDARIES! Now, you may not have any boundaries in place - you may not even know what boundaries ARE! Or maybe you say you know what your boundaries are, but then have no problem letting people step right over them. Regardless, this week's blog is for YOU!
Getting Clear About Boundaries
First of all, let's get clear about what boundaries actually are. To put it plainly, these are your rules for living a happy life. They are those little imaginary lines in the "sand" that keep you from losing your shit. Don't like when people text you after 9 PM? That's a boundary. Saying "no" to things that don't align with your values? Another boundary!
If you are sitting there feeling overwhelmed and overworked, it may be time to re-evaluate the boundaries you have in place (or the lack thereof). It may not be easy at first. Setting new boundaries after not really having them takes a lot of work. But the first step is understanding that it's okay not to please everyone. In your life and your business, you have to be okay with knowing that you will not be "for" everyone!
Why TF Are Boundaries Important?
Having boundaries in place is so important to protect yourself and your mental health as you grow your business and live your life. These little "lines" are what help you to be true to yourself and your needs. While there may be people in your life that are considerate of your needs and encourage you to take care of yourself, there is no one better equipped to protect yourself in this way than YOU are. Because your boundaries are such a personal, intimate thing. What gives you the "Ick" might not phase or offend someone else.
You are the one setting the standard here. While it may be a hard pill to swallow, you are the one showing others how you'd like to be treated. There is no doubt in my mind that there are so many people out there who want to work with you, but they may not know HOW to work with you. Setting these boundaries at the beginning of relationships, gives others the chance to understand how you communicate, the things you can or can't do, and how to nurture your personal or professional relationship. It also helps you to see which people should not be given access to your energy. If someone is upset at you for being clear and voicing your boundaries, it's a sign that they do not intend to respect your time, your work, or YOU, in general!
Get Comfortable Creating the "No" Boundary
Does the idea of saying "no" to someone make your heart race? You're not alone. So many of us allow people to hop, skip, and jump over our boundaries because we are afraid to make THEM upset. But the truth is, by saying "yes" to work or situations that don't feel like a "hell yes," you're not honoring your own needs.
Stop reading for a second. Take a deep breath and repeat after me: "Respecting my boundaries means respecting myself."
As I mentioned earlier, beginning to implement these standards after not having them for so long might be hard AF - but when you start loving yourself, respecting yourself, and following your own "rules," you'll notice others will begin to do the same. So, if you need some help getting out of that people-pleasing mind-fuck and finally listening to the needs of your inner self... I'd love to help!
Click here to grab my newest freebie, create some badass affirmations, and get over that fear of saying "no" or prioritizing YOU. That boundary-loving Boss Bish is waiting to be let out! I, for one, can't wait to see you step into your element and see what magic is waiting for you when you take back the reigns of your life.