BOUNDARIES
We have boundaries in our personal lives and in our professional lives as well. When American pioneers first began going out West to settle in wide open spaces, they would often set up fences around their property. These fences would help to keep wild animals out as well as envelop small children, pets, and livestock within.
In personal relationships with family and friends it indicates to others what is acceptable and what is not based on individual preferences and expectations. We are often frustrated when others cross our boundaries and step into places where they are not welcome or don’t belong. We must ask ourselves, “Have we communicated our desires and our expectations as they relate to these boundaries?”
If we have and they are still violated, then we need to say something again – first calmly and then if necessary more firmly.
If not, we can only blame ourselves for any stress or discomfort that is caused by someone overstepping in a way that makes us uncomfortable. New Year’s resolution? Perhaps it could be. Or just something to promise yourself to do and honor it.
“You have to love and respect yourself enough to not let people use and abuse you. You have to set boundaries and keep them, let people clearly know how you won’t tolerate to be treated, and let them know how you expect to be treated.” – Jeanette Coron
