Boundaries 414
Sh*t, Let’s Set some BOUNDARIES: Setting boundaries feels hard, especially when you’re used to being the "strong one," the "helper," or the one who never wants to upset anyone. I used to think boundaries were mean. Like drawing a line meant I was shutting people out or being cold.
Boundaries aren’t walls, they’re like bridges to healthy relationships, including the one you have with yourself.
What Are Boundaries, Really?
Boundaries are simply where you end and someone else begins. They define your emotional, mental, physical, and energetic space. They tell people:
“This is what’s ok with me. This is what’s not.”
And here’s the psychological truth: People who struggle with self-worth often struggle to set boundaries, because deep down, they feel guilty for taking up space.
Sound familiar? Yea, I’ve been there too, and still working on them in some areas of my life. This isn’t a one and done thing, it takes work.
Escaping the Guilt Trap.
That pit in your stomach when you say no? It’s not because you did something wrong, it’s discomfort, like a inner voice is saying “no”. You’re stretching out of an old role , and growing as a person, YAY! How exciting!
Psychology says:
Guilt is often a sign of growth. When you're healing, your nervous system still thinks that people-pleasing equals safety. But you’re safe now. You don’t owe your peace to someone else’s comfort.
Repeat after me:
“I can disappoint others and still be a good person.”
Go-To Boundary Lines (That Don’t Feel Harsh)
Because sometimes we to practice until they feel natural:
“I’m not available for that right now.”
“That doesn’t work for me, but I hope you understand.”
“I’m taking care of my mental health, so I need to say no.”
“I love you, and I need space right now.”
Short. Clear. Kind. No explaining yourself into a spiral. No is a complete sentence, but these help too.
Why Boundaries Are the Ultimate Self-Love Move
Every time you honor your boundaries, you’re telling your inner child:
“I’ve got you now. We don’t abandon ourselves anymore.”
Boundaries protect your energy, your healing, your joy, your time. They filter out chaos and call in peace.
The right people will respect your boundaries. The wrong ones will try to break them. Let that reveal what it needs to.
Here’s Your Mini Assignment (You know I couldn’t help it):
Think of one boundary you wish you could set.
Write it down.
Practice saying it out loud in the mirror (bonus if you do this right after your Mirror Talk).
You don’t have to get it perfect. You just have to start showing up for yourself. And that starts with a single word:
No.
And you know what?
That "no" can open the door to the most powerful "yes" of your life, yes to you.
