Balancing Self-Care with External Expectations: The Key to Personal Well-being

Many individuals find themselves sacrificing their personal needs to satisfy the expectations of others, whether in personal relationships or professional settings. A recent survey I conducted affirmed this with 80% of respondents replying that they often or always compromise their needs for those of other people.  I admit to being guilty of this as well.  This common pattern can lead to stress, burnout, and a diminished sense of self-worth. Understanding the importance of setting boundaries can help maintain a balance between fulfilling external demands and prioritizing personal well-being.

The tendency to prioritize others' needs often stems from our innate desire for approval and belonging. However, consistently putting others first at the expense of our own health and happiness can have long-term negative effects. Recognizing and addressing this imbalance is crucial for overall well-being.

Take, for example, the case of Emily, who always aimed to exceed her boss’s expectations by working late and juggling multiple projects. Over time, this led to exhaustion and a feeling of being undervalued. Emily's turning point came when she recognized the toll it was taking on her health and decided to implement changes.

For those looking to establish healthier boundaries, consider these practical tips:

1.      Identify Your Limits: Understand your emotional, physical, and mental limits. Know what you can handle and what makes you feel uncomfortable or stressed.

2.      Communicate Clearly: Once you know your limits, communicate them clearly and respectfully to others. Honest communication can prevent misunderstandings and establish expectations.

3.      Start Small: If setting boundaries feels daunting, start with small, manageable limits. This can build your confidence and help others get used to the new norms.

4.      Practice Saying No: Saying no can be challenging but practicing it can be empowering. You don’t have to justify your decisions; a simple and firm no is a complete answer.

5.      Prioritize Self-Care: Make self-care a priority. Allowing time for activities that nurture your well-being is essential and reinforces the importance of your boundaries.

6.      Seek Support: If you find it difficult to maintain boundaries, seek support from friends, family, or professionals. They can offer encouragement and advice on staying firm in your decisions.

Emily started implementing these strategies by clearly defining her work hours and declining additional projects that interfered with her personal life. This not only improved her mental health but also enhanced her professional effectiveness.

Setting boundaries is not about being selfish; it's about self-respect. Balancing external expectations with personal needs is essential for maintaining both mental health and professional success.

I would love to hear if you have tried any of these tips and how they worked for you!

 Until next time!

Deborah Griffiths

Broken to Boldness LLC (www.brokentoboldness.com)