Boundaries

Boundary

noun bound·ary bau̇n-d(ə-)rē : something that indicates or fixes a limit or extent.

When I think of my first boundary, my mind instantly reverts back to my childhood. I can distinctly remember when there were limits to the amount candy I could eat as a child. Unbeknownst to me, I was being taught what it meant to set limits, especially for things that aren’t good for us. The limit to my candy intake was much needed because too much sugar isn’t good for any of us. Adult or adolescent. Though candy is tasty, a lot can cause extreme damage. Too much sugar can cause cavities, diabetes, and the list goes on.

Fast forward to adulthood. Boundaries are just as important now, as they were then. Even more now, if you ask me. We need boundaries to protect our well-being. Adult boundaries, protect our personal space, emotions, time, energy, and spirit. As I continue to grow through the years, I’ve learned to be ok with setting boundaries with family, friends, coworkers, people of my past, present, and any relationship that weakens my mental, emotional, physical, or spiritual health.

Note, setting boundaries doesn’t mean we love them any less or that we cannot co-exist, rather it means that we need limitations to protect our well-being. We need to limit the amount of interaction and conversations that disrupt or corrupt who we are. We must do this in order to remain mentally, physically, and spiritually healthy. And those around us who love us, should desire the same for us and themselves too.

Each one of us need boundaries. Do what needs to be done and start setting your own boundaries. Don’t be afraid to set boundaries with people and relationships that do not encourage, empowerment, uplift, or grow you. No one is exempt and do not allow them to convince you otherwise. Love them, pray for them, and support them within the limits you feel are necessary. Don’t allow toxicity to take root in your life no matter who or what it is. Choose you, choose peace, choose positivity, and be content with your decision to do so. It’s your right to set boundaries as you see necessary and know that God supports you doing so.

XOXO,

Rhonda Nikole