Boundaries: Part 1
Defining Our Boundaries
Boundaries are an important theme in our personal lives and in society at large. Whether related to our own personal development or the ongoing creation of our business or career, setting clear boundaries is essential.
Let’s explore the concept of boundaries over the next few weeks. Today, we’ll define boundaries and in future videos, we’ll discuss:
What obstacles get in the way of our ability to set and hold boundaries?
What is the cost in our life of having boundaries in place, or not?
Why do we keep doing something if we know it is not working for us?
What are some practical action steps to start creating stronger, healthier boundaries?
First things first: what are boundaries?
Houston-based professor, researcher and author Brene Brown, who you may remember from her viral TED talk, The Power of Vulnerability, says we can simply define boundaries as “this is okay; this is not okay”.
Setting healthy boundaries means drawing a line and being crystal clear about what we are and are not willing to tolerate and engage in. We are responsible for setting the parameters around what works for us--and what does not.
To begin this exploration, become aware of two things:
What boundaries are clear for you? In what areas of your life have you already set strong, healthy boundaries? Relationships, family, work/business, health?
Where are your boundaries lacking or murky?
Setting the foundation with this awareness practice will enable you to learn how to set clear boundaries.
Feel free to share in the comments below. I’d love to hear your thoughts on boundaries.