To feel better in 2025, skip New Year’s resolutions and focus on setting boundaries instead.

What is a Boundary?

Boundaries are ways we define what we want, what makes us feel good or not so good.This means being clear about what you want, what you need, and what you can’t accept. Boundaries are your personal rules about how you and others will interact. Without boundaries, you feel angry, stressed, or exhausted. But with boundaries, you can feel more in control. This can also help boost your self-esteem and confidence as you learn to stand up for yourself.

Some boundaries are physical, others are conversational, emotional, and some relational. Let’s discuss how to recognize these boundaries, manage them, and take control of the choices you make for your well-being.

Types of Boundaries

Physical boundaries include personal space, where you stand and who is physically close to you. It can also be the physical relationship you have with devices (phone, apps). How many of us have a physical closeness to our phones?! If you think you have to be available 24/7 by phone, keeping your phone away from you for short periods can help you rest. It’s also a chance to consider the privacy you need and deserve.

Emotional boundaries, on the other hand, involve recognizing and respecting your own feelings and emotions as well as those of others. They help you distinguish between your own emotions and those of the people around you, ensuring that you do not take on the emotional burden of others. By setting clear emotional boundaries, you protect your mental well-being and foster healthier relationships. This can include acknowledging your right to feel upset, asking for space when overwhelmed, and communicating your needs and limits assertively. Understanding and maintaining emotional boundaries allows you to nurture your emotional health and build a sense of self-respect and empowerment.

Ways to Make Change

Protecting your boundaries is essential for maintaining your overall well-being. Here are some practical steps to help you safeguard both physical and emotional boundaries:

• Identify Your Limits: Clearly define what is acceptable and unacceptable for you. Understand your limits in various situations, whether it involves personal space, time, or emotional energy.
• Communicate Clearly: Assertively communicate your boundaries to others. Use “I” statements to express your needs and limits, such as “I need some time alone to recharge” or “I feel uncomfortable when…”.
• Be Consistent: Consistency is key to enforcing your boundaries. Stick to your limits and do not make exceptions unless it is absolutely necessary. This reinforces the importance of your boundaries to yourself and others.
• Remove Yourself from Uncomfortable Situations: It is okay to walk away from situations or people that violate your boundaries. Prioritize your well-being by distancing yourself from environments that cause discomfort or stress.
• Practice Self-Care: Regular self-care helps reinforce your boundaries by reminding you of your worth. Engage in activities that bring you joy, relaxation, and fulfillment.
• Seek Support: Surround yourself with supportive friends and family who respect your boundaries. Sometimes, discussing your boundaries with a trusted person can provide additional perspective and encouragement.
• Respect Others’ Boundaries: Just as you expect others to respect your boundaries, ensure that you also honor theirs. This mutual respect fosters healthier and more balanced relationships.

By implementing these steps, you can better protect your physical and emotional boundaries, leading to improved mental health and a greater sense of self-respect and empowerment.