Setting Boundaries and Finding Your Voice
{By: Lindsey Hancock}
One of my most recent realizations has been seeing the costs of “keeping the peace”. I always thought I was doing the right thing by not stirring the pot, just doing things to be nice, or keeping my mouth shut because it’s easier than speaking up.
This was a hard lesson learned, while also a most valuable one. I was destroying my own inner peace. Don’t get me wrong, there’s certainly a learning curve here. You don’t need to say EVERYTHING that’s on your mind, and you will lose people who don’t grow with you on this journey so do your best to be prepared for that.
Find the balance. You can still do the nice things, as long as it’s appreciated and not taken advantage of. Stay mindful of your own cup, as you can’t pour from an empty one.
We all have the power to say enough is enough at any moment. Take inventory of your actions and ask yourself the tough question,
“Am I behaving this way or doing these things at the cost of my own truth and happiness?”
Boundary setting is one of the hardest practices. It requires vulnerability, consciousness and clarity of our wants and needs, as well as understanding, self love and forgiveness. If you’re just beginning to set boundaries you may feel guilty, selfish or mean. This is because it’s uncomfortable and new, not because you’re doing something wrong. Your needs are valid and setting boundaries, like anything in life, will get easier the more consistent you are.
Below are some steps to start and continue with your other practices. Hopefully these will give you some direction and the confidence to enter into your higher vibrations!
✨Be clear and specific in your boundaries so there is nothing left unsaid and nothing to misinterpret.
✨Be direct, this shows that you’re firm and serious with taking action in doing what will serve you best. There’s no need to apologize for that.
✨Fearing conflict will only set you back. Fear is that nasty pest that stops us from doing so many things that will actually improve our lives.
✨Expect to have to repeat and reiterate these boundaries, especially if you’re setting boundaries with people who don’t take you seriously. You will have to continue to do this until your boundaries are respected. Stay patient.
✨Rest within your own space and knowing in your heart that you are worthy, safe and strong. Boundaries are a form of self care.
Website: rawaken.com
