Why Boundaries Are a Good Thing

  Most of us are good people and enjoy making others happy. We like saying “yes” to what people ask of us and overall try to be pleasing. (After all, we’re human and want to be helpful and liked!) So, it can feel natural to drop what we’re doing, lose sleep, and turn our schedules upside down to accommodate others.  The problem? Sometimes when we say “yes,” especially to the same people, again and again, we find ourselves doing things that don’t actually work for us, bending over backward, and ultimately feeling resentment, regret, and even taken advantage of.  Sometimes, we give so much that our lives become imbalanced and we find ourselves feeling exhausted, falling short on our own goals, and even sick from burnout. Be honest … When was the last time you set boundaries in your life? If your answer is “it’s been a while,” or “I’m not sure I actually ever have?” you’re not alone. Setting boundaries can seem uncomfortable because it often involves saying “no” and risks disappointing people.  But like author and speaker Brené Brown says, “Daring to set boundaries is about having the courage to love ourselves even when we risk disappointing others.”  We create boundaries not to hurt others, but to love ourselves more. And since all love begins with self-love, it only ends up strengthening our bonds. So, this weekend, create some healthy boundaries in your life and … 1. Ask yourself how you’re doing and which areas of your life do you feel overwhelmed or like something’s imbalanced? Are you working so late you don’t have time to unwind and enjoy your evenings? Are you saying ‘yes’ to so many invitations that you feel your calendar is constantly crammed?  Identify what feels heavy or off in areas of your life. 2. Write down what boundaries you can create to help yourself out. Everyone’s boundaries look different. For you, it may be drawing a hard line and leaving work behind at 6 p.m. no matter how many times your phone pings. Or, saying ‘yes’ to only two social events a week. 3. Communicate those boundaries (when appropriate). Whether it’s to your boss, friends, partner, or family members, let the people in your life know your limits if and when it makes sense. This way everyone’s in the know and you’re less likely to feel tested. 4. Stick to your boundaries, even if it’s tough. You set your boundaries for a reason (to give yourself some more TLC!) so stick with them. Remember why you have them when family members needle you to come to an event, even if your weekend is already packed – or your boss makes you feel guilty for not replying to emails late into the night. Boundaries are an act of self-care, so consider them a much-deserved gift to yourself. And remember, the happier you are, the happier everyone around you will be.  Wishing you a wonderful weekend!  Emily and the EveryDay Happy Team P.S. Join us on Instagram to feel inspired, uplifted and for daily tips to create more joy in your life.  Did you like this note? Now you can help us keep our notes ad-free by showing your appreciation with a tip. You can tip $5, $10, $25, $50, $100, or any amount you want. Thank you for your support!    Quote du jour “I set boundaries not to offend you but to respect myself.” — Unknown   Read and Listen to More Like This Enjoy Yourself More This Season What To Do When You’re Feeling Burnout The Secret To Midday Happiness The Magical Word You Need To Start Using This Is Your Most Important Friendship  

Latest Feel-Good Notes

Why it’s Time to Try Something New

Why it’s Time to Try Something New

How long has it been since you tried something new? 

Whether it’s walking into a new fitness class, signing up for language lessons, trying out a new hobby or activity, or even attempting to cook a new meal, breaking from routine and trying something new makes us come alive. 

Trying new things makes us step outside of our comfort zone (which isn’t always easy!). But doing so not only spices up our day, but reminds us of just how capable we are.

How to Get the Most out of Your Mornings

How to Get the Most out of Your Mornings

Do you wake up refreshed and ready to take on the day? Or does your morning routine feel more like something you schlep through until you take that first sip of heavenly coffee?

Mornings set the stage for the rest of the day, and today, I’m sharing the best way I know how to set yourself up for a wonderful day. (And you don’t have to get out of bed even a minute earlier!)

How to Be Grateful When Life Feels Hard

How to Be Grateful When Life Feels Hard

When life feels especially hard, or we’re just trying to get through the day, it can be challenging to see all the good that’s happening around us. Or worse, it can feel like there isn’t anything good.

You may already know the benefits that come from practicing gratitude, but even with all the good it does, during tough times, it’s easy to fall off the gratitude wagon and to focus on everything you don’t have vs. all that you do.

Be Kind to Your Mind

Be Kind to Your Mind

There’s a lot going on in the world, and you take on a lot too. With that comes a huge mental load. A heavy mental load can make us feel exceptionally overwhelmed and anxious, and be a serious drain on your energy and happiness.

That’s why today we’re sharing five ways to lighten your mental load and be kind to your mind.