Therapist Tips on Setting Boundaries
Setting boundaries can be difficult, especially for young women, when societal pressures force us to be constantly available and accommodating. Though it can be challenging, creating, and maintaining boundaries is so important in empowering ourselves and promoting positive mental health.
What are Boundaries?
Boundaries are guidelines or rules that define what you are comfortable with. They are parameters that can help you determine what you accept and what you don’t accept from people. Boundaries should exist on a physical and emotional level. Research suggests that having boundaries helps prevent burnout. Likewise, boundaries help foster fulfilling relationships and encourage self-growth.
1. Understand your needs
The first step in setting boundaries is recognising your needs and limits. Reflect on, ‘What makes you feel safe? ‘What makes you feel drained?’ By identifying these factors, you can decide where boundaries may be needed—whether in work, relationships, or family dynamics.
2. Communicate Clearly
Communicating your boundaries ensures that others are aware of your needs and expectations. To avoid miscommunications, it is beneficial to use ‘I’ statements. For example, by saying, “I need time to recharge,” instead of “You don’t give me space,” you are taking responsibility instead of blaming others.
3. Be Consistent
Try to stick to the boundaries you have created as much as possible. You may receive pushback as others adjust to your new needs. However, trust yourself through the process. Remember, you set the boundaries for a reason.
4. Learn to say “NO”
Research suggests that women have a harder time saying no, compared to men. No is not a bad word. No is also a complete sentence. You are honoring your time and energy by saying no to activities that don’t bring you peace. Remember, it’s okay (and encouraged) to put yourself first.
Setting boundaries is an essential tool in prioritizing your mental health. It is a form of self-care. While it may feel uncomfortable at first, understanding what you need, communicating clearly, and becoming comfortable with saying no can make the process of setting boundaries easier.
Ready to prioritize your mental health and well-being? MSC Therapy offers specialized psychotherapy services for young adult women in New York and Florida. Mollie provides compassionate, client-centered, and supportive therapy to help clients navigate anxiety, low self-esteem, disordered eating, body image concerns, OCD, relationship issues, dating, school or career stress, perfectionism, and life transitions. Services are available virtually, allowing for convenient and accessible support. Reach out now to take the first steps toward a more balanced life.