Let’s face it, relationships are complicated. As we ring in the New Year remember that setting healthy boundaries and creating safety for yourself in all your relationships is essential to experiencing peace and joy.  Consider what safety or boundaries you need to protect your peace.

A boundary is not a way to control others but it is something YOU do if someone oversteps what feels safe to you. 

For example, for a person who is speaking negatively you can make a choice to address it in a few ways.

1.  Remove yourself from the situation. Have a plan or an exit strategy, whether its a walk after dinner, going in to another room, driving your own car to the gathering, or playing with the kids in the play room. 

2.  Let that person know you are uncomfortable and respond to it with this boundary, “What you’re saying is hurtful. If you continue to _________ then I will ___________” – be sure to follow through.

3.  Release what you can’t control to God. Let God fill you with His peace that transcends all understanding.

Boundaries are not selfish or unreasonable. They keep you safe and operating from a place of abundant peace, joy, and love.  Healthy boundaries also help you to love yourself and others at the same time and that’s something to celebrate!