The word boundaries means, a line that marks the limits of an area.
I have 3 tips for you to help you set clear boundaries without the guilt.
**Read all the way through, there is a special gift for you at the end of this post
In midlife we are given freedoms that we’ve earned for a life that’s half lived.
When we think of having a boundary we may feel as if it’s negative or selfish. Actually having a boundary is a form of self care.
We all need boundaries because with we all deal with other humans. Without boundaries we may feel like you are being pulled into many different directions. If you are in midlife, you’ve undoubtedly heard the phrase “the sandwich generation” torn between adult children and aging parents. I see you shaking your head, yes. You love both your children and your parents, yet it is supposed to be the time in life where we get to experience the freedoms midlife has to offer? What gives?
How can you set up clear boundaries without creating friction or tension?
Before we explore these tips you must ask yourself a few important questions.
Do you take care of your needs and your desires on a regular basis? Do you honor what’s important to you at this point in your life? This may require you to show up courageously for yourself.
That’s hard for many women. I am here to give you three easy ways to set a boundary without all the guilt.
- First, get clear on the expectations that you have for your boundary. What are you setting a boundary on and why? Is your boundary so that you can gain more time for yourself or your new found hobbies? Once you’ve gotten clear on your why, you will have a deep conviction to honor that for yourself. You’ll know at your core, your reasoning and your why.
2. Can you find out what expectations others have for you and why? Did you agree to others expectations? Does it feel congruent for you now? Once it feels right for you, you can stand in your power.
3 .Lastly, set up your boundary, then clearly communicate it to all those involved, with love and respect?
Attached is a presentation for your viewing that I did last month in one of our coaching calls. This is my gift to you.
I hope it helps you define your clarity for your boundaries and gives you the courage to set them.
XO
Maria