Ask Kim | How do I set boundaries and manage overwhelm?

Dear Kim,

I’ll get to it as I’m drowning in the “so muchness” of life right now. I have huge demands and expectations—and very few options for delegation. How do I set boundaries that others respect?

Signed,

Burning Out in Buffalo

Dear Burning Out,

I hear you loud and clear. Setting boundaries, especially when faced with high demands and limited options for help, can feel like an uphill battle. Good for you for identifying that better boundaries are the KEY to recharging your resilience!

Setting and enforcing boundaries is crucial for managing overwhelming demands, which only increase when facing so much change Here are three tips I often recommend (and use daily!):

Be Clear and Direct. Clearly communicate your limits to others. Use "I" statements to express your needs without sounding accusatory. For example, "I know how important this current project is to you, and I can’t take on additional tasks right now.” Or “If this is important, what of my current priorities would you like me to shift to next week?”

Prioritize Self-Care. Schedule regular breaks and personal time to recharge. Protect this time as you would an important meeting. By valuing your well-being, others will understand and respect your boundaries.? Need some ideas?? Read more Momentum-Boosting ideas here.

Say No. It’s okay to decline requests that overextend you, especially if they compromise your work product. Politely but firmly say no, and offer alternatives when possible. For instance, "I can't help with this today. I’d love to tackle this next week—would that work?"? Let go of the guilt and remember saying no allows you to say yes to what really matters.??

The most important thing to remember is that you don’t need permission to set boundaries and focus on what you need. Click here to get your free You Are Allowed permission slip !

Here’s to Your Boundaries So That You Can Recharge Your Resilience,?

Big love,

Kim

All questions for the “Ask Kim” columns come from audience surveys, emails, DM's on social media, and one-on-one conversations with leaders. With topics ranging from building resilient teams to leading change, Kim Becking is ready to help you become more adaptable, resilient, and ready to ignite Unstoppable Momentum no matter what! Visit her website for more info.

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