The following piece is not written by me, but by my friend Dina. When I red it I decided it is one of the best reads about the sensitive issue of personal boundaries. We can put up boundaries in relation to others or we can destroy them, out of our own free will............... at the blink of an eye.
"Personal boundaries ...
You teach people how to treat you by what you allow , what you stop and what you reinforce. Boundaries are lines that define your self-respect and self-esteem . Your personal boundaries protect the inner core of your identity and your rights to choices . Boundaries define the limits we need to set in our lives to protect what is most important to us.
I look at boundaries as part of the foundation that holds our lives in place. Without boundaries, everything can, and will happen. Our lives can slowly unravel, and before we know it, our lives are nothing like what we envisioned them to be. Boundaries establish clear lines and they keep life from becoming blurry or fuzzy.. Daring to set boundaries is about having the courage to love ourselves, even when we risk disappointing others. We can't base our own worthiness on others' approval. Only when we believe, deep down, that we are enough can we say "Enough!".. A lack of boundaries invites a lack of respect . Set healthy boundaries .. Name your limits Say No without feeling guilty .. Tune into your feelings .. Be direct .. Give yourself permission .. Practice self awareness.. Consider the past and the present .. Make self care and self respect a priority.
Today's affirmation :
I allow myself to set healthy boundaries. To say no to what does not align with my values . Boundaries assist me to remain healthy, honest and live a life that is true to me . I respect my boundaries and insist others respect them too."
