How to Set Healthy Boundaries

We’re all familiar with the notion of settings goals in the New Year. But according to this study, only 9% of people feel like they reach them. The problem isn’t you or the resolution, we’re all in this together. So this year, let’s worry less about setting specific goals and more about creating healthy boundaries in 2023. 

What do you consider a healthy boundary?

A boundary is simply a line that marks the limit of an area. I like to think of it as taking control of my own life. Creating healthy boundaries helps you realize the power you have over your circumstances. Life will ebb and flow, but once you make a decision and stick to it, those fluctuations don’t seem to hold as much weight over your emotions. Whether at a job, in a relationship, with food or for a budget. You can set boundaries in any area of your life.

Things I’m setting boundaries on in 2023

• Clutter
• Screens
• Nights away from home
• Hurried mornings
• Social media
• Eating out

Boundaries can feel like saying no to a lot of things, but I have to keep reminding myself that all those no’s mean yesses to things like

• quality time with my family 
• mental clarity
• financial freedom 
• spontaneous date nights and day trips
• a healthier body
• a deeper relationship with my heavenly father 
• more quality content and connection with you through blogs + emails
• DIY projects that have been on my radar for a long time which I *can’t wait* to share with you. 

Without a clear vision, one could argue that you can’t make real progress. Culture at large is so easily distracted. I try to stay ahead of distractions and true to my boundaries by creating a vision board. Even if you don’t have a full vision board, you can still grab a pen and paper and write down some healthy boundaries you want to set.

According to this article from redbooth, Writing by hand boosts your ability to retain information, comprehend new ideas, and be more productive. So taking the time to write it out is definitely worth it. And why not make it pretty while you’re at it? I love using neutral highlighters!

You can read about how to create a vision board for your life here. And download my free vision board template to create your own! 

While many of these boundaries are self-explanatory, I wanted to touch more on screen time. We are inundated with screens around every corner, even gas stations! So here are a few specific things I’m doing to help set healthy boundaries for screens in 2023.

How to set healthy screen time boundaries

1. No screens after 9 pm. You can decide when to turn it off for the night but pre-determining a curfew for your phone helps prevent mindless scrolling and improves sleep quality.
2. Set limits within your apps. On iPhones look for “screen time” under the settings app. 
3. Make intentional time for other things. Start a new hobby, read a book, take a walk. Sometimes the best defense is a good offense. 
4. Tell a friend. Sharing your intentions with a trusted friend will strengthen your resolve to live a more unplugged life. I like to hand my husband my phone at night as a physical reminder that I’m done for the day. 

So, what areas in your life are you looking forward to setting boundaries in? I can’t wait to hear more about them and encourage you on your journey.

Until next time,
Grace

Grace Paul is a homemaker, mother, photographer, and educator in Franklin, TN. She believes everyone has the power to live a beautiful life and wants to encourage and equip you to live out your calling at work and home. Head here to inquire about educational opportunities and photo sessions or email her at gracepaulphotography@gmail.com.