Journaling prompts: unapologetic boundary-setting

Each month I host a free 'Journaling for well-being' workshop. It's 30 minutes of support and inspiration for your journaling practice. We focus on two techniques:

1 - Wild writing, a free-style journaling method.

2 - Utilising guided prompts around a particular theme.

The theme for the session was 'unapologetic boundary-setting'.

It is said that for us to flourish, we need to think and feel positive at least three times as much as we feel negatively, on a regular basis.

When we think of the word ‘boundary’, it often conjures up images of keeping something (or someone) out of our territory. But a personal boundary is essentially an invitation for others to see and know the real you. Boundaries are unique to you and everyone’s will be different, based on their individual needs and how they perform at their best.

Think of boundaries as personal preferences that enable you to thrive in your life and at work. Sharing these with others is actually very generous as you’re sharing with them what’s important to you.

Setting effective boundaries are an important element of self-care and maintaining your well-being. Many of us have been socialised to care for others as a priority which makes setting boundaries really difficult.

What beliefs do you have that makes it more challenging for you to communicate and maintain your boundaries? How could you reframe the idea of boundary-setting so it helps others see the real you?

Taking time out to reflect on your boundaries and why you find it difficult to set them can help you feel more confident to speak your truth. Explore your boundaries using this month’s journaling prompts below.

Try these journaling prompts for a greater understanding of your relationship with confidence.

• What beliefs or associations do you have with 'boundaries'?

• In what situations is it more difficult to speak about your needs?

• What are the boundaries you sense you need but haven't yet been able to communicate?

• If you could set the boundaries you needed this week, what difference would that make to you?

• What do you need in order to feel safe and secure enough to share this boundary?

• Which prompt has revealed the most to you today?

‘The joy of saying no’ Take a listen to Alice Liveing’s interview with Natalie Lui - the author of ‘The Joy of Saying No’ - for some practical tips on strengthening your communication with boundary-setting.

Listen here

And don’t forget to register for the next free journaling workshop, here.

Alternatively, you can download my free journaling toolkit to get your started.