Setting Boundaries
Set Healthy Boundaries and reclaim your power!
Are you walking around with a target on your back?
Family gatherings. Carpools. Juggling childcare. Aging parents. Holidays. In-laws. Yikes!
There is a way to enjoy life by doing less. I know that sounds counterintuitive but it's true.
How to determine if you are the "Yes" person.
"Oh, get Sally to do that. She'll buy, she'll bake, she'll drive the carpool. She's so helpful."
She's also probably stressed, tired, overworked, and a little bit angry. Ya think? That's no way to go through life!
The Highest and Best Use of Your Time
Like any project or trip, it's best to have a plan or roadmap. I'm not talking spreadsheets. I'm talking about figuring out what is the highest and best use of your time.
An easy way to do this is to draw a line down the middle of a piece of paper. List on the left side things or tasks that are nonessential. If they don't happen, Christmas still comes. Hanukkah happens. Last year I was dealing with a major issue that took all of my attention. The thought of designing, addressing, and mailing holiday cards was overwhelming. So I made the hard decision to let that go. Once I made the decision, I felt a weight lifting off my shoulders. And you know what, Christmas still came! And I had more time to devote to my family.
Set Healthy Boundaries & Delegate
I've talked about Healthy Boundaries before. They are not walls, but clearly defined do's and don'ts for you to remain sane and happy. Who are those people that can help? Are they sitting on the couch just waiting for instructions? (Right? Right!) See what you can hand off and focus your attention on other parts of your To Do list.
I Just Lost It. Now What?
Ha! I'm writing from recent experience. Where I did everything exactly opposite of what I tell people to do.
I let the stress continue to build. I did not take a step away from the situation. After I said something, I felt worse, which made me feel even less Zen-like. I got in the car and let off steam. It felt good. No one was around. By the time I got to my next appointment, my head space was cleared.
So yes, we are all human and we lose it every once in a while. That's okay. It's getting back on the horse, so to speak that really matters.
The Power of No!
I hope these tips help. They are nothing new or innovative. More just encouraging reminders that you CAN do it. You CAN say No. You CAN sit down and enjoy the visit right alongside your guests or the movie with your family or a weekend away with the girls.
Drop me an email if you'd like to create your own plan.
About Susan and 3C Clarity
Susan Tompkins is an Intuitive Life Coach, creator of Energy Art, and self-declared Sacred Rebel. The 3Cs of Clarity — circles, coaching, and change are offered to help Women live their Best Life. Inspired by Maine’s woods and waters, Susan conducts workshops, healing circles, 1:1 coaching sessions, and guided meditations for those seeking clarity.
