The success of your business depends on where you say yes to, and you say no to. But it’s often hard to say no to something, especially when you’re not good at setting boundaries.
Setting healthy boundaries should be an essential part of your workplace and life because it’s a form of self-care. By drawing a line, you can establish a work-life balance and maintain a healthy emotional state. In addition, boundaries will help you to let go of financial and emotional burdens, as well as help you reduce your stress and anxiety.
However, and somewhat ironically, you will feel stressed or anxious as you start to set your boundaries. It’s hard to say no to your family, friends, or clients, especially when you know they’ll be disappointed. But that doesn’t mean that it’s impossible to set boundaries. Here are tips to help you build personal boundaries in your career and personal life.
1. Determine your boundaries
First, you need to know where you should put your boundaries. There are different boundaries, including personal space, time, thoughts, emotional energy, finances, and social media. For example, you need to determine how close your friend or workmate can be or how much time you are willing to be with them.
Take note that you should prioritize your well-being. It’s best to choose those that will make you feel safe and valued. It’s your life, so own your time and only take on responsibilities that you can handle.
Read more: How to Focus On What’s Within Your Control (Mental Health Tips for Business Owners)
2. Let other people know of your boundaries
Here’s one of the most challenging parts — communicating your boundaries. And it’s not just avoiding a person, it’s verbally communicating with them. Sometimes, when people don’t know, they assume other things and will likely overstep your boundaries.
So gather your strength, prepare, and respectfully express your needs. Note that you should be clear and assertive. Don’t be afraid that people will be disappointed. It’s not your responsibility, but you may explain it to them so they understand your situation.
You don’t have to announce your boundaries to everyone around you. Instead, start small, and build your boundaries slowly. Doing so will allow you to move at a more comfortable pace.
3. Don’t be compelled to fix everybody’s problems.
It’s natural when you want to help your loved ones. You want to make their lives easier and relieve their suffering. However, not everyone wants to change, and some don’t want your help at all.
Sometimes, our desire to help clouds our judgment, and we think that their problems are our problems. Accept what’s within your control, and remember that you should help yourself first.
Read more: 4 Mental Health Resources for Entrepreneurs
4. Take some time off.
Whether it’s from work or from other people, taking a break is good for your mental health. That is why you shouldn’t consume your whole day working. You can take at least 1 hour to have “me” time. It’s where you spend time only for yourself. You may hit the gym, read a book, or daydream in your bed. Just be with your own thoughts and relax.
Conclusion
Remember that setting boundaries are for you, not for other people. But even though you’ve asserted your boundaries and are doing well, some circumstances will challenge your boundaries. So practice and take things slow!
