Grateful for Boundaries

2024 is just weeks away!?

Every holiday season I’m reminded how important it is to set boundaries before the season even begins. It’s difficult to say no when holiday events are everywhere. I feel like everyday when my kids come back from school they have another flyer for a holiday party, market, gift exchange, or play. Sometimes, it just feels like too much. I know I’m going to get overwhelmed, so I make blocks of time for just the family and just me.?

In the past, I felt like I couldn’t just say “no.” I always felt like I had to follow it up with a real reason I couldn’t go. I would find myself saying “no, my son has a hockey game that night so we can’t go.” or “I’m sorry, I can’t make it. We have the holiday party that day.” I found my boundaries and blocks of time were being ignored - by ME. I let other people take up time. I knew our family needed to rewind and be together to make memories.

You deserve to have a time out for yourself, your family, and just because. In the back of my mind, I knew that. But actually practicing it, I fell short. So I created a few phrases to use to protect my time - even if that means prioritizing a movie night (any Elf fans?).

Here are a few of my go-to phrases to protect my time:

“I can’t attend your event. But, I’m happy to donate directly to the charity/fundraiser/event.”

“Thank you for thinking of me. Unfortunately, I’m already committed. Would love to connect in Q1.”

“No, thank you.”

These work for events happening around the holiday season. But also know, these work all year round. You are not obligated to spend time with anyone. Holidays are supposed to be for love and joy, spent with those who make you happy and your life fuller.?

Remember during this time of year:?

You decide what your day looks like.?

You don't have to justify your decisions to anyone.?

The only people who get upset when you set a boundary are the ones that benefited from you not having them.?

Make this time of year the best for your life, your relationships and your business. It’s also the perfect time to reflect on who you were last year and how much you’ve grown.?

We have a few more business breakthrough slots open and it would be my honor to support you in the New Year!?

Cheering you on,

Amy