Givers need to set limits because takers rarely do. ― Irma Kurtz
A recent conversation with an acquaintance and her troubles at work, provoked me to think about boundaries and limits. People are abusing her good intentions and diligence, because she hasn't shown them where is the line, that shouldn't be crossed.
I myself learned the lessons of saying No and setting boundaries around my personal space quite late too. I have lived for four decades, and only during the last one, I began to find my own worth, dignity and sacredness of personal space.
People will treat you the way you allow them. If you don't require respect for yourself and your priorities, they will not give you respect either.
Setting boundaries, saying No in certain situations and showing others how you wish to be treated, is mandatory for your mental health and happy life.
They should be applied to all areas of your relationships with other people - family members, friends, co-workers, acquaintances, random strangers and even your children. You cannot afford to be lost under the burden of piled demands and never getting anything in return. You cannot afford being a sheer piece of convenience for the surrounding. They will never appreciate it, because they will take it for granted. And you will lose yourself, your identity and your health.
The moment you recognize your worth and start setting healthy boundaries, you will start taking very clear shape in the eyes of others. They might get angry and confused at first, but they will start respecting you and your personal space. The ones, who only needed you for your availability, will naturally fall off from your life.
Your individuality will show itself. In all its beauty and brilliance. And you will become happier and will like yourself more.
I believe, that setting boundaries and how important they are, should be taught since early age. A person with healthy self-esteem and respect for themselves, will make completely different choices from the person, who lacks those qualities. They will act differently and as a result will create a completely different life. And the chance of later regrets diminishes immensely.
For all these reasons, and for the ones I missed, learn to respect yourself, your space and your life by setting clear boundaries around you. I believe, that you will win a lot. You will regain yourself and will lose the fake relationships to clear space for the genuine. And you will heal the most important relationship in your life - the one with yourself!
Namaste ~ Thank you for reading!
Image Credit: Kasuma