Setting healthy boundaries are most often something that we learn from our family at a very young age. Setting healthy boundaries can be one of the most important things we can do for our mental health. In many cases it can come with a negative connotation, however setting boundaries are a positive mental health practice and can help strengthen relationships with your family, friends, co-workers, and anyone else you are surrounded by. Let’s talk about what healthy vs unhealthy boundaries look like and how to set them.
Setting Healthy vs. Unhealthy Boundaries
Healthy boundaries are what help us communicate our wants and needs to others in a productive manner. In order for these to work, we must also be receptive when others tell us what they need and meet them halfway. This is crucial in a healthy relationship, whether that is with a significant other, family members, friends, or co-workers. If we cannot communicate our wants and needs with those around us, boundaries become rigid and hard to read.
Clear boundaries should be flexible and adaptable, meaning anyone involved should feel comfortable speaking up when they need something or when they are not comfortable with something. This means saying “no” to things we do not want to do and not questioning others when they say no. The best way to set clear boundaries is by honoring our own wants and needs and respecting those of others. Healthy boundaries will help foster both individual growth as well as growth within the relationship.
How Do We Achieve Healthy Boundaries?
Boundaries can come in many forms: mental, physical, emotional, time, and material. They can be thought of as personal rules for ourselves and others. This can be difficult if we don’t know what we want, therefore it is important to be honest with ourselves first so that we can communicate what we need to others. A few things to consider when setting boundaries are setting goals and starting small. Then, we can clearly communicate those goals to others. Practicing this and keeping your boundaries simple and realistic will set you up for success and lead to building and maintaining healthier relationships.
Support is Key to Success
Making lifestyle changes all at once can feel overwhelming especially with all the conflicting noise on the internet. Humans are hardwired to need support; seek it both personally and professionally. Get a free 30-minute phone consultation. See if this is the right match for you by addressing natural weight loss, cravings, emotional eating, balanced diet, disease prevention, nutrition, and getting to the root cause of what’s keeping you stuck. See what others are saying on Google and Yelp.
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~ Samantha Hua, Nutrition Coach, Holistic Health Coach & Weight Loss Coach
