How To Set Boundaries In A Healthy Way?
Boundaries are extremely important in every relationship, whether it be with friends, family or a significant other. Setting and sustaining boundaries helps to maintain a healthy physical and mental lifestyle. Here are three ways to set boundaries.
Know Your Limits
If you are unsure as to where you stand in a situation, the best way is to know your own limits. Make sure to identify your comfort level on all aspects physical, emotional, spiritual and mental. You will know what your limits are if actions trigger feelings of discomfort, anxiety or stress. With the practice of self-awareness, you will start to beware of your own feelings and start to take control of these by setting boundaries.
Feelings Are Important
You’ve heard it before; communication is key. Tune into your feelings when you are facing a situation, and you are experiencing feelings of discomfort or resentment reflect and ask yourself: what is causing this? How can I change this? Be assertive when someone has crossed a line or has done something that has bothered you. You will be able to work together and address the problem.
Self-care
Always put yourself first; if you are unable to take care of yourself, you cannot expect to be taking care of those around you. Take time for yourself to do things that bring you joy. These things can be simple actions and can also be the most rewarding. The time you set aside for yourself will allow you to recharge and refresh. This will make you more present to be able to handle the challenges that might arise. Always make yourself a priority; know when you are unhappy and find things that can make you change your attitude. Remember that self-care is not selfish!
Seek Professional Help
If you are having a hard time setting and maintaining boundaries, seek support. Trained professionals will be able to guide you and provide tangible skills that you can apply when you are facing a difficult situation. If you are finding it hard to set boundaries with another person or a group of people, having a group session will help practice accountability. Know that you are not alone and that seeking support is nothing to be ashamed about.
Boundaries are important to understand and to apply to every aspect of your life. Contact us at Ottawa Counselling; we are happy to help you take the next steps.