Do you have trouble setting boundaries?

As a recovering “people pleaser,” I get it! In fact, I recently agreed to become my boyfriend’s temporary, lunchtime dog walker while he looked for a new one, even though I was recovering from an injury. I had to check in with myself to determine if I really wanted — and was able — to fit in walking the dog during my busy workday. The truth was that I did…most times. And, that is what I told him.

The old me would have just done it to make things easier for someone I love. After thinking it over, I finally found that point of what I was really willing to do and WHY. I love Boots and my boyfriend and ME: I did it for all of us! I’m happy to see Boots get exercise, I’m grateful I can support my boyfriend in this way, AND I loved connecting with nature + getting a little exercise myself in the middle of my day.

When I became clear about what I was genuinely willing to do in a way that didn’t compromise my needs and WHY I was willing to do it, I was better able to express my truth in a more confident, unapologetic way. No guilt here! It felt refreshing and exciting to share what I would do and for it to be met with understanding and appreciation.