Why We Need To Set Boundaries

In this episode, Nicole and Marina talk about why we need to set boundaries—what they are, why they’re important, and how to set them.

We talk about boundaries ALL THE TIME on GenTwenty…and we’ll never stop. Because until everyone feels confident in owning their own space, we won’t rest! As humans, now more than ever, we NEED to set boundaries so that we can grow and thrive on our own timeline and path.

What Are Boundaries?

Boundaries are an invisible, imaginary line between you and the outside world. They are a tool we use to protect ourselves—our mental health, physical health, time, physical health and help us live happy, safe, and fulfilling lives, by separating out what we can do and what we can not.

Why Are Boundaries So Important?

Because it’s important that we prioritize ourselves. There’s a quote to the effect of “you can’t pour from an empty cup” boundaries help us preserve our mental and physical health. Time is also a factor, as mentioned above. Your time is one of the most valuable assets you have: it is a finite resource. You cannot get it back, and you cannot make more of it.

How Can I Set Boundaries?

Practice saying no to things. If setting boundaries and telling people “no” is stressful for you, then by all means you need to start practicing! Start small, maybe by declining a social call when you aren’t feeling up to chatting and follow up with an alternative time to talk.

Surprising Ways To Set Boundaries:

Schedule your day so that you have built-in self-care-time.
Set time limits on your phone for specific apps.
Let your family and friends know that you will not be able to text during the work day.
Telling someone you want to support them but aren’t able to take on their emotional trouble at the moment.

How To Respect Other People’s Boundaries:

Listen to what people ask of you and hear them. You don’t need to understand why they might need to set a boundary, nor do you need to feel like it’s about you. When other people set boundaries, they are simply giving themselves the space to grow and thrive, and in turn they are allowing you to set your own boundaries.

Continue reading about boundaries from the writers at GenTwenty:

About the Author

With a B.A. in French and an MFA in Creative Writing, Marina is a Writing Coach and copywriter helping creatives bring their ideas to the page. In her free time, you'll find her reading, cooking, traveling, or binge-watching sitcoms on Netflix.

Website: www.marinacrousewrites.com