The Beauty of Boundaries

I had a huge lesson in the importance of setting boundaries this week.  It was painful! Now that I’m on the other side of the lesson though, I have to say I’m so thankful to have learned what I have.  Here is what I learned:

Don’t assume people have the same priorities or values.  It sets you up for disappointment. 

Expectations must be stated clearly. For example, here is something I should have communicated to a friend last week: It’s not OK when you are late. It tells me that you don’t value or respect me or my time.

Do not lower your values for the sake of friendship or a family relationship. It’s not worth it.It is to your own detriment.

If a person is truly your friend, they will respect your boundaries.  If they do not respect your boundaries, the friendship will not last.

I have not been clear with my expectations and boundaries up until this point in my life.  If I don’t hold to my own expectations, I can’t expect others to.

It’s best to speak up when your boundaries have been violated. It is difficult to do, but it will get easier with practice.

Perhaps you have been told that you are too nice or too kind.  This is a wonderful thing if you start that kindness with you.

Setting boundaries decreases stress and creates peace and freedom.