Boundaries by Elsa Khan
Fun example of being colorful and creative while also talking about something that I am passionate about and school related!!
The concept of boundaries is something that's super interesting to me. I think that really understanding the word “boundaries” is what is important and how it can be incorporated into your own life in a healthy way! There are a few boundaries that I'm trying to work on in my own life that I would like to share with you.
1. Limiting Screen Time
The first one is staying off my phone, which is ironic because I'm also trying to pursue exploring new hobbies—like being on social media. The challenge here is trying to find that balance of being on my phone when it's time to create versus being on my phone because I can just essentially “doom-scroll" and there goes an hour of my day!! I love expressing myself online. I love expressing myself through writing, or being creative in some capacity. Having outlets like being on my phone or writing something or creating a video is something that's really good for me—but at the same time it's very easy to get caught up in it. This is why reinforcing that boundary of selectively being on my phone is important.
2. Making Time for Me
Another boundary that I'm trying to maintain is actually making time for the things that I care about. Things like going to the gym and getting my steps in, or being creative. Doing things that I love! Spending time with people that I care about, but also maintaining enough time to study. That is something that I struggle with. At the end of the day, I know that school is my top priority but I also know that if I don't do things that bring me some type of stress relief or joy, then I am barely surviving the day instead of living life to its fullest.
3. Saying No
My last boundary I would like to share is not getting overly involved in things, whether that be trying to fix problems that aren't my problems to fix, or overextending myself in school. It's very easy for me to say “yes” and then not realize how much is actually piling up. I think it is super important to sit with myself and look at my day, see what I can actually manage and not feel like I'm constantly getting pulled in 30 different directions. It’s also important for me not to feel guilty for saying no.
Living an Authentic & Fulfilling Life
The general theme for all of these boundaries is wanting to live an authentic and fulfilling life. I cherish so many things, such as being creative or being involved with my community, strengthening my relationships, and doing well in school.
Although it may seem overwhelming to look at everything that I want to do, I realize that there’s time and place for everything and having healthy limits is something that's really important.
What Brings You Joy?
I encourage us all to really look at our life and find things that bring us joy. Understand what it takes to pursue things that bring you joy while also not sacrificing things that are inherently part of your life. Learn how to find balance with these and practice achieving balance through setting boundaries!
Additional tools for when you may be in crisis:
U.S. Crisis Text Line: 741-741
Ohio Mobile Response and Stabilization Services: 1-888-418-MRSS (6777)