Tell me, anyone, does anyone know what a boundary is? Do we set and keep our realistic boundaries? What are our limitations and flexibilities? Are we able to adapt to modifications and or changes in our situations that occur along the way? Each perimeter is unique, so we need to alter our thought process when a new situation appears.
Of course, this is in distinct contrast with the borders among the US and Canada or Mexico. There is no wall here. Nor, do I plan to build one. In this piece, we will explain mostly about mental and or physical boundaries.
Boundaries are necessary to keep us safe from one another, whether it be physically or mentally, or a combination of each. In mental health, boundaries refer to our thought process. Naturally, it is not always possible that we see eye to eye with someone. Each of us have different experiences; however, we have the opportunity and the integrity to apply our thoughts, values, beliefs and opinions. Sharing here might be a good way to proceed.
Overall, this shows its importance in creating, setting and following through some personal boundaries will help us achieve them more efficiently and maybe more quickly. Due to this, it eventually becomes a crucial component of having and keeping all of our healthy relationships.
Having these clear boundaries in these relationships allow us to care for each other psychologically. Of course, this is not a selfish act, but an essential way towards our overall well-being. In turn, this helps with all mental health improvements, saving our emotional energies, plus acting as a form of self-preservation and self-care.
Take time when establishing boundaries. Look for small ways to begin the process. Where to set limits is a personal decision. Think about what level of support we want to offer someone, whether they suffer from mental health issues or not, including ones that protect ourselves from unacceptable actions or behaviours. A clear understanding of a person’s needs wants and expectations are vital. Record everything when we can and put this in an accessible place.
Healthy boundaries become a way to a successful relationship. This happens when both individuals can sense from their inner core and then find inside themselves what they need by accessing the voice that speaks to each other. In addition, we all have limits and have experienced crossing this boundary line. Most instances transpire when others are at the junction of this limit because they are not aware of what or where the ceiling has been set.
We don’t require to have the same or similar boundary or comfort level for each person or situation. By handling this effectively, it lets us have a different sphere depending on its perspective. Also, it can assist us in maintaining enough power to care for our overall (mental and physical) health and well-being.
To make boundaries for oneself is often an arduous task. With patience, this can be accomplished. Furthermore, this shows the world that we take responsibility for our mental well-being. According to Health Affiliates of Maine, they recommend trying the following:
- Look to one’s core values
- Follow our instincts and be consistent
- Learn to say no
- Communicate clearly
- Start small
- Seek support, if needed
Being consistent with implementing both our internal and external borders can lead us to increased self-confidence and tends to develop more independence in our life. Once we succeed in creating a set of boundaries, most of us must test them quickly. Don’t falter. We all have different values for our unique boundaries and we all deserve to have them acknowledged and respected. Honour our wants plus needs and make ourselves the priority.
Most successful relationships find these useful tips in thinking about our boundaries being useful. No matter what the level of the relationship status limits is vital for all. Start with paying close attention to how we feel about and react to various situations. Each participant needs to be clear about what they desire.
Also, real-life and movies/theatre are equally relevant in making barriers. Three examples are, what is important to us? What makes us feel uncomfortable? Is there any type of behaviour or a trait that would not be okay with us? Then try to write these thoughts or ideas down on paper and possibly on a computer for safe-keeping.
Again, doing any of these techniques is our personal choice. Pick one and attempt to achieve our individual best. If this one does not work, try another one. Be happy with the selection. Modify and adapt to one’s situation to make this more and more successful. Each boundary will be similar or different for each of us trying the same idea.
We all need to retain our boundaries for our well-being.
Howard Diamond is a certified peer specialist in New York.
