We often hear about how important it is to set boundaries with other people, but you also need to set them with yourself.
What does that look like? Basically, it’s all about putting limits in place to make sure you’re preserving your integrity, self-respect, and your mental and physical health. While everyone’s boundaries will be slightly different, here are some important ones everyone can benefit from setting.
1. Learn to say no without feeling guilty.
It’s okay to turn down requests or invitations that don’t align with your priorities or energy levels. Saying no doesn’t make you a bad person; it’s about respecting your own time and well-being. Practise declining politely but firmly, and remind yourself that it’s not selfish to have limits.
2. Set a bedtime and stick to it.
Your body needs consistent sleep to function properly. Choose a reasonable bedtime that allows for enough rest, and try to stick to it even on weekends. This might mean setting a ‘wind down’ alarm to remind you to start getting ready for bed. Your future self will thank you for the extra energy and focus.
3. Limit your social media usage.
Social media can be a time sink and often leaves us feeling worse about ourselves. Set specific times for checking your accounts, or use app limits on your phone. Maybe decide to avoid social media first thing in the morning or right before bed. You might be surprised at how much time and mental energy this frees up.
4. Take regular breaks during work.
Continuous work without breaks isn’t actually more productive. Give yourself permission to step away from your desk every hour or so, even if it’s just for a few minutes. Stretch, grab a drink, or take a quick walk. These small breaks can help maintain your focus and prevent burnout.
5. Don’t check work emails outside of work hours.
It’s tempting to stay connected to work 24/7, but this can lead to stress and burnout. Set a cut-off time for work-related communications. If possible, remove work email from your personal phone. This boundary helps create a clear separation between work and personal time, allowing you to truly relax and recharge.
6. Make time for hobbies and interests.
It’s easy to let personal interests slide when life gets busy, but they’re important for your overall wellness. Schedule time for your hobbies like you would any other important appointment. Whether it’s reading, painting, or playing a sport, these activities help you maintain a sense of self outside of work and relationships.
7. Set financial limits for discretionary spending.
Impulse purchases can wreak havoc on your budget. Decide on a reasonable amount for non-essential spending each month and stick to it. This might mean waiting before making a purchase or finding free alternatives for entertainment. Your bank account (and future self) will appreciate this boundary.
8. Establish a personal space at home.
Even if you live with other people, it’s important to have a space that’s just for you. This could be a whole room, a corner of the bedroom, or even just a comfortable chair. Make it clear to those you live with that this is your personal area for relaxation or focused work.
9. Define your dealbreakers in relationships.
Know what behaviours or situations you absolutely won’t tolerate in any relationship, romantic or platonic. These might include disrespect, dishonesty, or consistent negativity. Having clear dealbreakers helps you maintain healthy relationships and avoid compromising your values.
10. Set limits on alcohol or other indulgences.
Source: Unsplash It’s fine to enjoy a drink or a treat, but set clear limits for yourself. Maybe it’s a two-drink maximum when out with friends, or limiting desserts to weekends only. These boundaries help you maintain control and avoid the regret that often comes with overindulgence.
11. Prioritise alone time.
Spending time alone is crucial for self-reflection and recharging. Schedule regular periods of alone time, even if it’s just an hour a week. Use this time to do something you enjoy or simply sit quietly with your thoughts. It’s not selfish to need time to yourself; it’s essential for your mental health.
12. Learn to accept compliments graciously.
Many of us struggle with accepting praise, but constantly deflecting compliments can be a form of self-sabotage. Practise simply saying “thank you” when someone compliments you, rather than arguing or downplaying your achievements. This boundary is about allowing yourself to feel good about your positive qualities and accomplishments.
13. Protect your personal information.
Source: Unsplash These days, we’re all connected 24/7, so it’s important to be mindful of what personal information you share and with whom. This applies to social media, work colleagues, and even friends. It’s okay to keep some things private. Setting this boundary helps protect your privacy and can prevent potential issues down the line.
