Defining Your "Why": The Secret to Boundaries
Sep 05, 2024Without missing a beat, women are expected to juggle it all—careers, family responsibilities, social obligations, and personal goals. At the end of the day, we often feel like we are being pulled in a million different directions. It is a tall order, and the pressure can be overwhelming.
We find ourselves constantly saying "yes" to requests, whether it is taking on extra tasks at work, volunteering for the school bake sale, or staying up late to finish household chores. In the process, our needs and desires get pushed to the back burner. We stretch ourselves too thin, trying to meet everyone else’s expectations, and in doing so, we risk losing sight of who we are and what matters to us. It is not uncommon to reach a point where we feel completely drained, wondering where our time and energy have gone, and questioning if there is any room left for our goals.
But what if I told you that the key to managing this chaos lies in defining your "why"?
Understanding our core motivations—what drives us, what we value most—can be the secret to breaking free from the cycle of overwhelm. When we are clear on our "why," we can start to set boundaries that protect our time, resources, and mental well-being. These boundaries are not about shutting people out or shirking responsibilities, they are about being intentional with our choices, saying "yes" to what aligns with our values and "no" to what does not. This shift in perspective can lead to a more balanced and fulfilling life, where we are not just surviving but thriving, with the time and space to pursue the things that bring us joy and fulfillment.
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Why Defining Your "Why" is Essential
Defining our "why" is about understanding what matters to us most. It is the foundation upon which every decision, big or small, should be made. When we have a clear understanding of our "why," it becomes easier to make choices that align with our values and to set boundaries that protect what is most important to us.
For working women, especially moms, defining our "why" can mean the difference between feeling empowered and in control versus feeling burned out and directionless. It is about identifying what drives us. Whether it is providing for our family, pursuing a passion, achieving career goals, or simply finding joy in the everyday moments. When we know our "why," we can create a life that reflects it, and set boundaries that support it.
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Connection Between Your "Why" and Boundaries
Boundaries are like invisible lines that protect our time and emotional well-being. They are essential for maintaining balance and control in our lives, especially when we are trying to juggle multiple roles. However, without a clear sense of "why," boundaries can feel arbitrary or even selfish. But when our boundaries are rooted in a deep understanding of what matters to us, they become a powerful tool for living a more intentional and fulfilled life.
For instance, if our "why" is to be a present and engaged mom, then setting boundaries around our work hours becomes not just a logistical necessity but a reflection of our deepest values. If our "why" is to advance in our career, then we might set boundaries around our time to ensure we can focus on professional development. In both cases, the boundaries are not just about saying "no" to things, they are about saying "yes" to what matters most.
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5 Ways to Set Boundaries that Reflect Your "Why"
Setting boundaries that reflect our "why" can be challenging, especially for women who often feel the pressure to meet everyone else's expectations. We are conditioned to be nurturing, accommodating, and endlessly available, which makes it difficult to say "no" without feeling guilty. Many of us worry that setting boundaries might disappoint others or make us appear less capable, whether it is at work, at home, or in our social circles. Create the space you need to thrive, here are some practical steps to help you set boundaries that reflect your "why":
1. Communicate Clearly
As women, we often find ourselves in situations where we hesitate to voice our needs, fearing that we might come across as demanding or selfish. But the truth is, clear communication is essential if we want to set boundaries that honor our "why." When we are clear about what we need and why it matters, we not only assert our value but also set an example for others. It is important to remember that communicating our needs does not make us difficult or less accommodating, it makes us authentic and self-respecting.
We also need to recognize that clear communication is not just about the words we use, it is also about our tone, our body language, and our willingness to listen as well. When we approach these conversations with honesty and confidence, we are more likely to be heard and understood.
2. Start Small
When it comes to setting boundaries, we do not have to overhaul everything at once. We can start small, taking manageable steps that gradually lead us to where we want to be. Imagine carving out just 30 minutes each day solely for self-care—whether that is enjoying a quiet cup of coffee before the household wakes up, going for a walk to clear our minds, or indulging in a book we have been meaning to read.
These small, intentional acts of self-care can make a big difference in how we feel and how we show up in our lives. As we become more comfortable with these smaller boundaries, we can begin to expand them. Over time, these moments become non-negotiable parts of our routine, reinforcing the importance of taking care of ourselves first.
If you are struggling to set and manage your boundaries, I’ve got just the thing for you. My book, Brave Boundaries, is a practical guide that breaks down how to establish clear boundaries in all areas of your life—whether it is with family, friends, or at work. It is packed with straightforward techniques and strategies to help you confidently assert yourself and better manage your time. Learn how to use your time in a way that’s more fulfilling and aligned with your priorities.
3. Be Consistent
We know that setting boundaries can be tough, and it is easy to waver when faced with pressure or guilt. But boundaries only work if we consistently enforce them. This means standing our ground, even when it feels uncomfortable or when others might not understand. It is important to remember that we are not just setting limits for the sake of it, we are protecting something deeply important to us: our "why."
By being consistent with our boundaries, we are not only safeguarding our well-being but also reinforcing the importance of living a life that aligns with our deepest motivations. This consistency helps us stay true to ourselves and ultimately leads to a more balanced and fulfilling life.
4. Seek Support
Let’s be honest, asking for help can feel like admitting defeat, but it is far from that. It is a sign of strength and self-awareness. As women, we often juggle so many roles and responsibilities, and trying to do it all on our own can lead to burnout. That is why we must seek support when we need it. Having a solid support system makes a world of difference. It not only helps us maintain our boundaries but also ensures we do not feel alone in our struggles.
Asking for help does not mean we are not capable, instead, it shows that we value our time and mental health enough to make adjustments and reach out for assistance. This shift allows us to thrive in all aspects of our lives, as we are no longer trying to carry the weight of the world on our shoulders alone.
Looking for a community of like-minded women advocating for growth and positive change? Join our amazing community, The Table. At The Table, we support each other in navigating the challenges of work, family, and personal growth, sharing strategies and encouragement to help each of us thrive in establishing work-life control. We believe in the power of connection and collaboration, and our members come from diverse backgrounds and experiences. Join us and be a part of a dynamic group of women who are committed to personal and professional development.
5. Practice Self-Compassion
Setting boundaries is not a one-time event but a continuous process of learning and adjusting. We might not always get it right on the first try, and that is perfectly okay. It is important for us to remember that setting boundaries is about finding what works best for our unique needs and circumstances. If we slip up or if our boundaries need to be adjusted as we go along, it is all part of the process. We are allowed to make changes and refine our approach as we gain more insight into what works for us. It is essential to treat ourselves with the same kindness and understanding that we offer to others.
Instead of beating ourselves up for not having perfect boundaries or feeling guilty about needing to change them, let’s embrace the journey with compassion. We are constantly evolving, and so are our needs and priorities. By being gentle with ourselves and recognizing that it is okay to make adjustments, we create a more supportive and nurturing environment for our personal growth.
The Ripple Effect of Boundaries
Setting boundaries is not just about improving your own life—it is about creating a ripple effect that can positively impact everyone around you. When we live in alignment with our "why" and set boundaries that reflect our values, we inspire others to do the same.
For working moms, this might mean modeling healthy boundaries for our children, teaching them the importance of self-care, and showing them that it is okay to say "no" when something does not align with their values. For women in the workplace, it might mean advocating for a culture that supports work-life control and encourages colleagues to set boundaries that protect their well-being.
The ripple effect of boundaries can be profound. It can lead to stronger relationships, more supportive workplaces, and a greater sense of community. And it all starts with defining your "why."
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Living Your "Why" Through Boundaries
We all know that we cannot do it all, no matter how much we might try. Juggling multiple roles—career professional, caregiver, friend—often leaves us stretched so thin that we are left feeling overwhelmed and drained. It is easy to get caught up in trying to meet everyone’s expectations, and in doing so, we lose sight of what matters to us. That is where defining our "why" comes in. It helps us focus on what drives us and what we value most.
So, let’s take a moment to think about our "why." What’s at the core of what drives us? What are our deepest values? How can we set boundaries that safeguard these priorities?
Setting boundaries is not just about drawing lines, it is about shaping our lives to align with what we want. By embracing our "why" and setting boundaries with purpose, we create a space where we can thrive and find genuine fulfillment.
Let’s take charge, honor our needs, and watch how our lives transform in meaningful ways.
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