A Resource (or Two) on Boundaries

As the year winds down and the holiday season comes and goes, you might be thinking a little more about things like:

financial constraints — year-end deadlines — goals and resolutions — extended time with family

members — the loss of loved ones — family traditions and values — busy schedules

… and my personal favorite, “circling back in the new year.”

Each of these areas comes with it’s own need for boundaries, and in many cases, there is a lot of stress that comes from a lack thereof. Whether you’re new to this thing called boundary setting, or simply looking for a tune-up, Set Boundaries Find Peace by Nedra Glover Tawwab could be a great resource for you. As I read through this book, I found the author’s writing style to be refreshingly relatable and would guess that you’ll find yourself connecting to her real-life examples as you make your way through the book.

From the get-go, the author defines boundaries and debunks common myths that prevent folks from setting boundaries in their relationships. She takes a deep dive into why boundaries are important and addresses common challenges that arise in the process. In the latter half of the book, boundaries pertaining to different areas of life are then discussed one-by-one. Personally, I loved the amount of attention she gave to each of the different areas in our lives in which we need boundaries. Each of these chapters is further supported by practical examples and questions for self-reflection along the way. (PS: The corresponding workbook takes this even deeper if you’re left wanting more.)

And since I promised two resources this time, let’s go ahead and jump into the next one. If you’re looking for a faith-based resource on boundaries, Boundaries by Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend integrates the importance of boundary setting with values of the Christian faith. The authors similarly define boundaries and debunk boundary setting myths, while also taking a closer look at how boundary setting is pivotal in your relationship with God and others. 

Each of these resources will encourage you that while sometimes challenging, boundary setting is possible. If you’re looking for additional support in this area, I’d love to connect with you. 

“You don’t have to be boundaryless to be loved.”

-Nedra Glover Tawwab