Boundaries [ boun-duh-rees ]
AKA don't push your luck sunshine
noun.
something that indicates bounds or limits; a limiting or bounding line
from https://www.dictionary.com/browse/boundaries
Being clear on boundaries is a popular topic. For some having a boundary means when to say ‘no’, which makes sense right? I suppose I’m wondering who are we saying no too?
Having boundaries with others can be a challenge. If you are a female well-being business owner there are many layers to think about. We sit in the intersection between wanting to help and support others, yet needing to have clear boundaries in order to do this professionally. I heard a tale of a coach that offered a 20 minute discovery call, but 1.5 hours later they were still speaking to the potential client. Clearly, not clear on boundaries!
Having boundaries with those we work with actually serve the client and ourselves. When we are clear about what to expect, we’re not only informing the client but holding ourselves to account.
In our home life, again boundaries are key. Within personal relationships, we can often find ourselves being a ‘giver’. Being the main person that people rely on or lean upon. It’s not to say that this is ‘bad’, but know that you will need to think about how much energy you have in reserve for yourself! Remember, it can’t all go one way.
Our challenges, as women in wellbeing, comes with the added societal expectations of 'traditional’ (read patriarchal) roles. It often means that we are viewed as being ‘nurturing’ or ‘accommodating’ and therefore we will be saying yes to things far more than we would actually like. So having our own sense of what our boundaries are with ourselves is essential for our own wellbeing.
Here’s some journalling/ thinking prompts for establishing and maintaining boundaries are:
What are the non-negotiables? What do I want to protect and why?
Where are my boundaries the strongest? What is it I do to show/feel/communicate this?
Where are my boundaries most wobbly? What happens to me when I have weakened boundaries?
How’s my corner of the world:
Well, despite my hopes about the start of spring, the weather has been pretty rubbish here in the UK! However, ever the optimist, I’m holding onto the idea of pottering in my greenhouse on a summers evening. Fingers crossed.
One gem that the garden did give me was a few beautiful peonies. I decided to bring a stem inside and it has given me such joy, so sharing it here!
Thanks for stopping by folks, see ya!
Really good tips for journaling, thank you.