Hello Boundless Friends,

Boundaries…

Setting them can feel challenging, frightening, uncomfortable and yet they can be actually liberating.

We have a dear friend who was struggling with committing to do work for a family member. She is an incredibly kind, giving, generous person – who always wants to help and pitch in for those she loves.

She was spinning a bit because her desires to be authentic with herself did not align with what was being requested from her.

It was tiring, upsetting and confusing for her. She had always been taught that you do everything to keep-the-peace and to do what was asked.

When we spoke with her, we suggested that she write out (for herself) what she was willing to do and what felt uncomfortable for her.

She took that to heart and wrote a very direct, uncomplicated, concise list. There was no drama in her wording, no explaining nor complaining… just a “laundry list”.

After reading it to us, she felt really good about it and decided to take the next step and send it to the family.

She framed it in a very positive way, taking ownership of what felt true and right to her. She explained that she always wanted success for all the projects and that this list came from an open, loving heart… she was brave and sent it off.

Then she waited… the wait can be difficult… but she knew that patience in this instance would allow the receiver to really have the time they needed to be honest with themselves.

Then she got a response! It was full of gratitude and acceptance and kindness.

Both parties felt heard, seen and now had a clear path with which to move forward.

We applaud her courage, her honoring of her needs and we celebrate that setting boundaries produced a more coherent relationship.

Here’s what’s happening on insidewink…

Cheryl Farrell asks us to Expose Your Heart… Ask for Help  – a beautiful misssive about opening ourselves to vulnerability.

We are following Dove Rose‘s thoughts on taking The Sacred Pause

Check out our Happy Headlines to get some relief from the news!

And, of course, more of Jean‘s wonderful Reliable Recipes and personal stories too. We have some wonderful writers we know you will really enjoy reading.

We’ll talk again soon!

Much love,
Jean & Alison