We all have a limit.

Things that we will and will not tolerate.
These are what my counselor likes to call boundaries.
Honest confession:
I completely SUCK at creating and sticking to boundaries.

When you are as sensitive and codependent as I am, boundaries are a scary thing to enforce.
Saying NO doesn’t come easily, and heaven forbid I have to remove myself from a situation.

I am learning though.

I have discovered that when people put boundaries up, I quickly become uncomfortable - as if I've done something wrong.

My own life has caused me to enforce my own boundaries and I don't like it.

Unfortunately, the only way to protect yourself from the things you aren't comfortable with are to have these ropes up in your life.
Caution tape if you will.

I struggle with hurting people. I hate the thought that something I need for my own sanity may cause someone else pain.
It may make someone feel as if they've done something wrong.

I am slowly grasping and understanding that it is okay to say NO.
I am allowed to say what I am or am not willing to put up with.
I am allowed to have limits with people that aren't safe.

I am not good at sticking to my guns. I feel like it's necessary, though, and shows that you have respect for yourself.
When people don't understand, get angry, or have their feelings hurt because of the lines you've drawn in the sand -that's on them.

I am no expert. I don't know what I'm doing half the time.
I keep looking for someone older and wiser to just tell me what to do, but I'm the adult. I have someone looking to me for answers.

I didn't realize how inconsiderate disrespecting a boundary could be until I noticed one of my daughter's boundaries being ignored.

I know that she is a little girl, but no means no.
Within reason of course.

Since then, I have been more aware of my boundaries.
It feels good to know what you do and do not stand for, and it's liberating to know that it is okay to do what is best for YOU.

Boundaries, though scary, can be a beautiful thing.

You can't let someone walk all over you, for fear of being disliked.
Don't be afraid to show that perfect backbone.