How often do you you feel like you’ve taken too much on your plate and you don’t know how to juggle it all? I know I've been there!

In our Facebook Live last Friday about getting loud and speaking up for our mental and physical health, Louisa Valentin and I talked about the importance of boundaries, setting them and keeping them. To watch the full replay of our chat, click here!

In today's fast-paced and demanding world, many of us struggle with stress and burnout, which can have a significant impact on our physical and mental health, as well as our personal and professional lives. Setting and maintaining boundaries can be an effective way to manage these challenges.

What are boundaries?

Boundaries are limits that we set for ourselves and others regarding our time, energy, and resources. They help us establish clear expectations for our relationships, work, and personal lives. Setting boundaries can be challenging, as they requires us to say no and prioritize our own needs and well-being. Which… often get pushed aside. However, boundaries can be very empowering, as they help us feel more in control of our lives and reduce stress.

Why are boundaries important for reducing stress and burnout?

When we don't set and maintain boundaries, we may feel overwhelmed, stressed, and burned out. We may take on too much work or responsibility, neglect our personal needs and relationships, and struggle to balance our work and personal lives. By setting boundaries, we prioritize our well-being and focus on what matters most. I also want to stress here that it’s important to start small, taking small steps to sustainably incorporate the boundaries in our daily lives.

Here are some ways to set and maintain boundaries

1. Define your values and priorities: What is important to you? What are your goals and aspirations? Defining your values and priorities can help you identify what boundaries are necessary to achieve them.
2. Communicate your boundaries: Be clear and assertive about your boundaries. Let others know what you can and cannot do, and what your expectations are for your relationships and work.
3. Be consistent: Once you set boundaries, stick to them. Consistency is key to establishing healthy boundaries and reducing stress.
4. Take care of yourself: Self-care is essential for maintaining healthy boundaries. Prioritize your physical, emotional, and mental well-being by practicing self-care activities such as exercise, meditation, and spending time with loved ones.

Setting and maintaining boundaries is a powerful tool for reducing stress and burnout. By prioritizing your well-being and defining your values and priorities, you can establish clear expectations for your relationships and work and focus on what matters most.

2 things to remember: boundaries are not selfish; they are essential for living a healthy and fulfilling life. And take them one step at a time, if you try to change too much, too soon it’ll be harder to make it sustainable.

What boundaries have you set up or are you setting to support yourself?

If you’re looking for help to set and establish sustainable boundaries, I’m here to help! Book a free call with me