Boundaries With Kindness

Day 39: Boundaries With Kindness

“A lack of boundaries invites a lack of respect.” – Unknown

If you have ever read a self-help book, have a therapist, read a parenting book or are currently alive, then you are very familiar with the subject of boundaries. Having healthy boundaries means that we know when to say no and when we decide to say yes, we mean it, it feels correct and it aligns. Not all of us were taught how to create and enforce boundaries, but having boundaries and teaching our children what they are and how to create them is one of the most important things we can teach ourselves and others.

1. Kindness to Self:

   Boundaries, boundaries, boundaries. I did not know what a boundary was or how to have one until I was in my mid twenties. It has taken me several more years to learn how to have them, create them and keep them, but what I know now, is that having healthy boundaries is one of the main ingredients to a healthy and prosperous relationship. Learning to create and maintain boundaries has to start with me. I say No when I need to and I make sure that when I say yes, I really mean it. If I am unsure, then I take the time to think about it. Having healthy boundaries with myself means that I am doing what I need to do before I ever ask what the other person needs or wants. It is also learning to let go of the other person’s reaction, thoughts, feelings and actions.

2. Kindness to Others:

   How do we communicate our boundaries effectively and kindly? With practice; setting, keeping and communicating our limits becomes easier and more graceful. Practice, practice, practice.

3. Kindness to Strangers:

   Having healthy boundaries with strangers can be as simple as listening to our gut and our intuition to what feels good and safe. Listening to our gut and intuition actually applies in all situations. Listen to your inner self and you will always be lead in the right direction.

4. Kindness to Our Planet:

   Setting boundaries regarding how we treat our planet is very necessary. You can start with small things, such as committing to never purchasing a plastic water bottle or bringing a reusable cup to your favorite coffee shop. Commit to turning the water off when you brush your teeth and do the dishes. Small things add up, other people may see and hopefully will do the same.

Jennifer Palazzo

Photo Courtesy of FreeImages.com/kslyesmith