I recently decided to “unfriend” someone on Facebook.
Remember Facebook? Yes, it still exists.
My choice to click the “unfriend” button doesn’t mean that I don’t care for this person, but rather, was a decision I made out of self-preservation.
It was a decision that was best for me.
In essence, I created a boundary.
Creating clear boundaries is one of the most caring things that you can do for yourself.
In simple terms, setting a boundary is making a clear distinction of your limits and an agreement within yourself that you won’t extend beyond your limits.
When you choose to refrain from creating boundaries for yourself, in many respects, you’re saying that you don’t matter enough to honor what’s best for you.
Often people will refrain from creating boundaries with other people because they “feel bad”, or “don’t want to be mean”, or they “feel scared” to do so.
I have conversations with my clients all the time on the importance of creating boundaries within their respective businesses. We often touch upon subjects such as:
Ask for what you’re worth AND don’t settle for less.
Hold meaningful and constructive conversations AND avoid getting wrapped up in drama.
Delegate to others AND refrain from taking on responsibilities that aren’t yours.
The list goes on…
Truth be told, setting clear boundaries isn’t always easy. AND, it doesn’t matter where you’re at in your career; setting boundaries is one of the most valuable skills that you can develop.
The same holds true for your personal life as well, especially during the holiday season.
For example, if you’re going to visit your family and know that you typically have a great time for the first 4 days and on the 5th day, can’t wait to get out of there…..
…don’t stay longer than 4 days!
If you choose to stay longer, you enter the stages of diminishing and negative returns and that’s NOT where you want to be.
Set a clear boundary. Don’t stay longer because you feel obligated. Listen to what’s best for you.
My encouragement to you over the next 3 weeks is to check in with yourself and create boundaries that will support your well-being.
This could mean shutting down your computer and giving yourself a break from work.
This could mean only going to 6 holiday parties versus 7.
This could mean taking a walk when you start to feel stressed.
Whatever the situation may be, trust that you know what’s best for you.
P.S. I’m visiting my family for 8 days and will undoubtedly love every minute of it. 🙂
