A few years ago, a friend recommended I read a book.

In the book, the author discusses the rough time he’s been having, and how he started repeating to himself “I love myself, I love myself, I love myself.”

He suggested I try it too.

I literally couldn’t get the words out.

A few years later, I picked up the book and this time, I also picked up the mantra.

“I love myself, I love myself, I love myself.”

At first, it was really hard to say it. So I just thought it.

When I could think it with minimal cringes, I made myself start saying it out loud until it felt better.

Then I started saying it out loud while looking at myself in the mirror. (Let me tell you how awkward THAT was in the beginning… even if it was just me!)

Over time, the mantra got easier.

And one day I realized something.

During the time I was practicing the mantra, repeating to myself “I love myself, I love myself, I love myself…” 

Many things had changed!

I was maintainin...

Boundaries.

One of the major buzzwords in our field.

“You have to set boundaries to be happier.”

Boundaries with your clients- you won’t answer your phone or emails after certain hours.

Boundaries with your boss- you’re only available x number of hours per week and not on certain afternoons for daycare.

Boundaries with your “friends”- if you haven’t talked to them in 5 years, you won’t answer their random “Hey can I ask you a question?” messages.

We’re all familiar with the need for those types of boundaries.

Do you know the biggest sign that a boundary is needed? 

Negative emotions.

That’s right. If you’re feeling angry, frustrated, annoyed… that’s a sign that a boundary may need to be put in place.

But here’s the piece that most people miss when they talk about this major subject…

The most important boundaries? The ones that are the MOST needed and the MOST influential in our happiness? 

Those aren’t the boundaries with your family, your frie...