Day 21: Boundaries Are a Form of Self-Respect
May Mental Health Month Series
“Saying no doesn’t make me difficult. It makes me honest about what I need.” MJB
Let’s talk about boundaries. Not the kind that push people away, but the kind that keep you rooted in self-respect.
For a long time, I thought being kind meant saying yes. Yes to favors. Yes to extra work. Yes to anything that might help someone else, even if it drained me. I was constantly overdoing, overcommitting, and under-resting.
When the stroke happened, I was already extremely exhausted. It was no surprise in hindsight. I wasn’t sleeping well, and later I found out I had undiagnosed sleep apnea. I kept pushing through exhaustion, thinking I could rest later. But later never came, until my body forced me to stop.
Recovery taught me something that hustle never did: your body will speak up if you won’t.
I had to start practicing a small, powerful word: No.
Not "maybe." Not "let me explain." Just no.
It was awkward at first. I wanted to soften it, apologize for it. But “no” is a complete sentence. And every time I said it, I felt more in control. Not of the world, but of myself.
Boundaries aren’t about being cold. They’re about being clear. They protect your peace, your health, and your healing. Whether it’s turning down an invitation, canceling a call, or stepping away from people-pleasing, every time you honor your limits, you’re choosing you.
And that’s not selfish. That’s wise. I could write a book on this topic, but I won't, not here. I'll leave you to your assignment.
Gentle Assignment:
Where do you need to say no today? Do you know how to say No!! Think of one place where your energy feels stretched. Practice saying no, even just in the mirror. You don’t owe anyone an apology for honoring your needs. You owe yourself the truth. Just say no, it's a sanity saver.
Michelle Joy Brown Your Artist Friend 🧡
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Artwork: Using Procreate.
by Michelle Joy Brown - Artist