Boundaries
Boundary work plays a significant role in achieving therapeutic goals aimed at reducing stress, improving relationships, and preventing burnout. It can be challenging to come up with new boundaries on your own, and many people feel stuck in the situations they are in currently. Therapy can be effective in getting these clients ‘unstuck’ by identifying triggers, finding alternatives or compromises, and practicing ways to express their experiences and needs.
For some, assertive boundaries may go against concepts that were initially taught to them. Many of us have been conditioned to please people, never say ‘no,’ avoid conflict or be overly easygoing. While changing these habits can be difficult and result in pushback from others, clients who decide to utilize boundaries to limit these behaviors find relief and freedom. When implementing new boundaries, it is essential to remind yourself about the ‘why’ and to gain support from others that help you stay accountable. These strategies can help with feelings of inconvenience or exhaustion.
Whether you are new or experienced with personal boundaries, the list of boundary types below may help identify new areas to protect.
Physical Boundaries – ex. Your personal space.
Emotional Boundaries – ex. Holding to how much emotional energy you can give someone or something.
Mental Boundaries – ex. Saying no when you have too much going on.
Time Boundaries – ex. Saving your evenings for family time.
Relational Boundaries – ex. Expecting mutual respect from your partner.
Work-Life Boundaries – ex. When you are off work, you do not take any calls.
If you could benefit from creating boundaries to protect your emotional, physical, and mental energy, contact Intuitive Counseling at 720-689-6166.
