Boundaries, boundaries, and more boundaries

Boundaries are one of the most important aspects of creating a life in which we feel that our time, space, and sense of self is valued and respected. Boundaries are also one of the most underused aspects of our lives because we often have a tendency to put everyone else's needs first. I will be the first to say - it is okay to put yourself first! If that is selfish, then be a little selfish. 

It is okay to want/need time to yourself. 

It is okay to say no. 

It is okay to let someone know they cannot be disrespectful to you. 

It is okay to spend time and money on yourself. 

It is okay to say, “I need a break”. 

It is okay to let someone know they are making you uncomfortable. 

It is okay to let someone know they hurt your feelings. 

You get the idea, right? The list could go on and on. But the main concept is that it is okay to set boundaries and to stand up for yourself. It doesn’t matter if “I’m your mother, I get to know everything”, or if “this is how it has always been”. What matters is how you want to spend your life and your time and if the people around you are lifting you up or bringing you down. If they are bringing you down and you still want them in your life, let's have a conversation about how to put boundaries on that relationship. If you are looking for more support on how to create more boundaries in your life, please reach out to me at Beth@shinespacecounseling.com or 727.201.2257.