This podcast episode invites listeners to explore the concept of boundaries and explains how boundaries are not so much about saying no, as they are about saying yes. "A boundary is about upholding a promise to oneself."
Boundaries involve saying yes to your own needs and desires. They are a powerful and loving reminder that you matter. Setting boundaries is important for caregivers, in preventing burnout. Dr Welch shares her own experiences with not creating boundaries to avoid the pitfalls of rumination and ineffective venting.
She then encourages listeners to set boundaries and make decisions, recognizing that they have a choice. She suggests how to create your own list of non-negotiable boundaries, and gives examples. Starting small with boundaries is acceptable.
Example letter:
Dear (Your name here),
I love you.
And because I love you I am unwilling to put you in situations that cause you to feel unappreciated.
I will ensure you drink at least 2L of water daily.
I will exercise your body 4-5 days a week.
I will make sure you get 8 hours of sleep each night.
I will keep you away from people, places and things that cause you to feel 'less than'.
And if I do enter a space where this happens, I promise not to put you in that situation again.
I am making these promises to you out of deep love for you and your sense of wellbeing.
Love,
(Your name here)
Caring for others—whether in your personal or professional life—can be deeply fulfilling, but it also comes with its challenges. The weight of constant caregiving can leave even the most dedicated among us feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, and burned out. Too often, societal and cultural norms reinforce the idea that sacrificing ourselves is the price of being a “good” caregiver.
But here’s the truth: you cannot pour from an empty cup. You deserve to care for others without losing yourself in the process.
Welcome to The JoyfulRx podcast—your weekly dose of inspiration, tools, and strategies to rediscover your inner joy. Hosted by Dr. Michelle Welch, a practicing physician, mother, children’s author, entrepreneur, and certified coach, this podcast is designed specifically for caregivers who are ready to stop surviving and start thriving.
Each week, Dr. Michelle dives into topics that matter most to caregivers, offering practical steps and actionable insights to help you reclaim your joy, build resilience, and create a life where you can serve others from your overflow, not your reserves.
Let’s stay in touch!
Visit: www.joyfulrx.ca to download free resources, powerful exercises and activities you can do today, to move you from burnout to balance. You can also join our Newsletter (we promise to only send information you will love).
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