Link to full podcast: https://soundcloud.com/heelhang/the-artists-circle-boundaries
“When we fail to set boundaries and hold people accountable, we feel used and mistreated. This is why we sometimes attack who they are, which is far more hurtful than addressing a behavior or a choice.” – Brené Brown
Prompt:
An excellent therapist and friend told me once that happiness is always just around the corner from setting good boundaries. He was talking about life in general, but I can’t help but feel it’s also true for making art as well. For this week, I’d like to think of a time that we set intentional boundaries and how that process served us… OR, a time that we didn’t and regretted it. Maybe both!
My Answer:
Every time I said yes when I knew I should have said no… one more class, one more act, one more show, working on a project that I knew I didn’t have time for… the list goes on and on. Each time I regretted it because it was too much, too taxing, too stressful or physically damaging.
Thoughts and Actions:
There are two main types of boundaries: TIME AND PEOPLE.
Time and people boundaries are important because they help you to stay creative and productive. By setting limits on your time and interactions, you can avoid burnout, distractions, and injuries.
When you define your limits, you are telling the world that you value your time and energy. You set boundaries to protect your time and your energy - creative or physical. But this can be hard, we largely love being involved, pleasing others, and being helpful… it feels better to say yes than say no.
How do we set TIME boundaries?
Set regular hours for working on your art. And stick to this schedule as much as possible.
Take breaks when you need them.
Set limits on screen time.
Choose your events and commitments carefully.
Make regular time for personal time and self care.
How do we set PEOPLE boundaries?
Be clear about your needs and wants.
Make sure you know what you need in order to be creative and productive. This may include things like quiet time, alone time, or time to work uninterrupted.
Communicate your needs to others.
Let the people in your life know what you need in order to be creative.
Define and set limits.
It is important to set limits on how much time and energy you are willing to give to others.
Prioritize yourself.
If you are the kind of person who is a “people pleaser” be sure to check in with yourself first!
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