Empower Yourself Through the Art of Boundary Setting

What are personal boundaries and why are they important?

I'm sure you've heard the term before, but what exactly are personal boundaries and how do they impact our lives?

To understand personal boundaries, let's first look at the definition of a boundary.

The Mirriam-Webster dictionary, defines a boundary as: something that indicates or fixes a limit or extent

A personal boundary functions in a similar way, but on an internal and invisible level. Let's delve deeper.

What are boundaries?

1) A boundary defines your responsibility in a given situation.

You already have established boundaries in your work or school. These are the parameters of your job or student responsibilities, which were defined when you took the job or enrolled. On a personal level, a boundary tells you who you are responsible for, like yourself and possibly as a caregiver. It also defines other responsibilities such as paying bills or taking care of pets.

2) A boundary keeps you safe.

Many boundaries seem obvious like not drinking and driving or other laws. But sometimes you need to set boundaries for yourself. For example, removing yourself from a relationship with an unhealthy person.

3) A boundary helps identify who you are.

Does your moral code define you as a good person, a bad person, a selfish person, or a pious one? Our moral values and principles guide our decision-making and inform our behavior, and they often reflect our personal beliefs and values.

4) A boundary clarifies your needs.

What do you need in your life to be happiest and healthiest? What protects you from overwork or abuse? Setting boundaries around values and needs helps to create more fulfillment in your life.

5) A boundary outlines your relationships.

Use boundaries to set clear parameters of your relationship, whether personal or professional. Is it a healthy relationship? What is your responsibility to the other person and vice versa?

With all these benefits, it's clear that having strong boundaries is crucial. Strong boundaries...

...help you understand who you are

...assist others in comprehending your needs

...provide guidelines in your relationships

...promote healthy interactions with others

In other words, boundaries are an essential part of self-care.

It's important to remember to re-evaluate boundaries as we grow and change.

Given the impact boundaries have on our happiness and health, it's worth taking the time to learn where to draw the line.

How do you set boundaries in your life?