Drawing a line in the sand is about you, not them.
Boundaries give you the bandwidth to navigate your process with honesty and integrity while meeting your own needs; the space to doing things another way.
I understand just how scary it can feel to show up in such a profound way for yourself, especially in the midst of triggered, unhealed trauma. What it can feel like to interact with someone who you feel powerless standing against, and what it means to tow this very delicate line. Pleading, begging for another way - begging for a by-pass - the message is the same: the only way out is through.
Let integrity and your gut feeling guide you.
Stay in your body.
Breathe...
Others will push back, because you’re no longer playing the role assigned to you, or engaging in co-dependent dynamics.
And, that’s ok - it’s not your responsibility to get them to see why a boundary makes sense for your well-being.
You’re not here to change peoples minds about who they think you are, or needing for everyone to like or understand you.
In this outdated paradigm, you are subtly abandoning yourself by putting your worth in their hands.
Our inner kiddos beg to be hidden, running from any possible outcome that may lead to this younger part of self being the "reason". Guilt and shame may arise as you lean into the ache of old wounds, old ways of being.
This is the work; this is healing.
Snag a mentor.
Connect with a healer or therapist.
Plan weekly joy-filled distractions with your crew to remind you that although there is discomfort, you are safe.
You have the right to your process, and to heal.
xo,
Jen