Set Boundaries or be Bound.

I used to be a people pleaser because I didn't like disappointing people. Therefore, every time someone would ask anything of me, I took on the task or tried to oblige by any means necessary. Even if it meant I had to sacrifice something.

I never thought to ask if there were other options or if someone else could do it. I just automatically dove in and did what I could so that I wouldn't cause any disappointments.

When I first started my career in Management. I was eager to please my superiors and prove myself as a valuable asset to the company. I would work long hours and take on as many projects as I could, even if it meant sacrificing my personal time and well-being. I believed that saying "yes" to everything would lead to greater promotions and less disappointments. While I assumed correctly,

I soon realized that my approach was unsustainable. I was slowly killing myself. I was constantly tired, stressed, and irritable. My work began to suffer because I was overwhelmed. Soon I began to feel like a failure because I knew I wasn't performing at my best. Sadly, no one seemed to care as long as they received what that wanted or needed.

One day, I decided to set some boundaries for myself. I identified the types of projects that I enjoyed and what was most important and easier to achieve without sacrificing my mental and emotional well=being.

In my personal life, I began doing the same thing. I started asking questions such as, " Have you asked anyone else to do it? or What are your other options?" At first, it was difficult to say "no" to clients, my family and friends. I worried that I would come across as uncooperative, difficult to work with or plain selfish.

However, I found that most people respected my boundaries and appreciated my honesty. Over time, I found that setting boundaries had a positive impact on my life. I had more time to pursue my hobbies and spend time with my loved ones, and I felt more fulfilled and motivated. I also found that I was able to build stronger, more meaningful relationships with people because I was able to effectively communicate my needs as opposed to always considering others needs before my own.

Saying "no" is a powerful word and is necessary for establishing healthy boundaries and achieving personal and professional success. Remember that when you don't have your own boundaries you subject yourself to be bound to someone that does.