Set Boundaries and Protect Your Mental Health

Setting boundaries is an essential part of protecting your mental health. Boundaries help you maintain healthy relationships, manage time and energy, and prevent burnout and stress. However, many people struggle with setting boundaries, often feeling guilty or selfish for prioritizing their needs. Here are some tips to help you set boundaries and protect your mental health.

Identify your limits and needs. What are your non-negotiables regarding your time, energy, and emotional well-being? When you understand your boundaries, communicate them respectfully to those around you. Doing this can be tricky, especially if you have people in your life who are used to you always saying yes. Be polite and firm. Establishing boundaries is not about being mean or selfish; instead, it is about taking care of yourself.

It’s also important to be consistent with your boundaries and enforce them if necessary. Sometimes, it can be uncomfortable, but it’s essential for maintaining healthy relationships and protecting g your mental health. 

Be kind to yourself and remember that setting boundaries is a process. It’s okay to make mistakes and to adjust your limits as needed. Understanding your needs and setting healthy boundaries allows you to protect your mental health and live a better life.

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Author: Mike Balof

A retired Air Force Master Sergeant, Mike used to lay in bed at night and worry about what would happen if his plant closed or found himself without a job. One day his plant closed. Rather than panic and hysteria (OK, maybe a little) Mike found himself carried away on the adventure of his life. Mike started with the best job he ever had working at Home Depot. He spent 8 years working with job seekers at a local workforce center, helping them to find employment. He then started his own company developing courses, writing books and urging others to follow their own paths into the future. Mike holds a Master of Arts in Adult Education and Training and a Bachelor of Business Management, earned through the University of Phoenix and an AAS degree in Electronics Systems Technology from the Community College of the Air Force. Mike is a member of the Delta Mu Delta Business Honor Society.

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