A Year of Disovery

     The New Year brings about new surprises waiting to be discovered, new thoughts to be had, and new challenges to strengthen our spirit. Instead of setting unrealistic expectations known by many enthusiasts as "resolutions," this year, I've created a theme.

My theme for 2012 is Discovery.

     I'm excited to discover people, places, thoughts, and feelings that I wouldn't normally discover if I weren't looking. I plan to discover, embrace, and learn from the things that make me most uncomfortable.

     For the month of January, I've set out to discover and embrace healthy boundaries. Creating and maintaining boundaries preserves a personal balance. A balance between family life, work, and personal time is a virtue desired by many.

     Setting and maintaining healthy boundaries can be a daunting task for even the bravest of heart. Over the years, my desire to please, and my fear of relational abandonment has diminished my boundaries to some degree.

     Being conscious of personal boundaries requires some effort. It requires honesty and strength. A pen and paper may come in handy. Three steps that have helped me with healthy boundaries are:

1. Make a hand written list of people, places, or things that make you feel uncomfortable. Note: Hand writing things instills a sense of commitment and ownership. When you write these things down, you admit that they're troublesome, and you're subconsiously commiting yourself to take action.
2. Say NO.
3. Maintain your stance. 

Refer back to your list when you feel like your boundaries are weakening.

Remember how you felt and why you listed it in the first place.

When you set and enforce personal boundaries, others will gain respect for you and your priorities. Embrace yourself, respect yourself, love yourself.

~Amber.

A City Mouse. Amber Wetrosky. Copyright © 2007-2012. All Rights Reserved