As an important part of staff wellbeing practices, the HeadStart team invites you this week to reflect on how good you are at setting boundaries and expectations. Setting healthy boundaries is an important part of a self-care menu which can support your energy levels and wellbeing.
The Resilience Framework, the evidence base underpinning the HeadStart model, has a whole pillar dedicated to coping. Understanding boundaries and keeping within them helps us to be able to cope and manage with daily demands and expectations – both professionally and personally.
Setting healthy boundaries isn’t necessarily something we are used to doing…..maybe you were never taught it but it is something we can learn and practice and also is good role modelling for the children and young people we are working with as part of a mental wellbeing toolbox for everyone.
Why is it important to set healthy boundaries?
- Boundaries help decrease stress and prevent burnout
- Boundaries are important for protecting your wellbeing, having healthy relationships and creating safety
- Boundaries protect your mental and physical health – a form of self-care which can protect your time, energy and emotional space
- Boundaries help you to stay in touch with your own needs and feelings so you can be true to yourself without feeling the need to constantly please others
Professional and personal boundaries are an integral part of self-care and wellbeing practices. We all have commitments and responsibilities both in the workplace and in our personal lives. Part of a healthy self-care regime includes making sure you have enough energy to attend to the ‘have to’s’ whilst also making sure there is enough energy left for YOU.
Published: October 27