She Strengthens

Uncovering the Power of Healthy Boundaries

As we navigate our personal and professional lives, it’s easy to overlook a crucial element that can make all the difference: healthy boundaries. For Susanna Williams, an Organizational Development and Communications Consultant, discovering the importance of setting boundaries was a game-changer.

A Decades-Long Pattern of Self-Discovery

After reaching a breaking point with yet another emotionally unavailable partner, Susanna realized she had no idea what a healthy relationship looked like. Similarly, she recognized a pattern of burnout in her jobs and saw that boundaries were essential in both areas. Establishing healthy boundaries became her top priority, as she understood that it was the key to self-esteem and confidence.

Taking the First Step

A free coaching session, “Do You Actually Know What The @$&! You’re Doing When It Comes to Love?” marked the beginning of Susanna’s journey. The session’s focus on communication, boundaries, and knowing what you want resonated deeply with her. A particularly poignant question – “How did you learn to love?” – sparked a radical shift in her perspective.

The Owners’ Manual Class: A Transformative Experience

Susanna enrolled in a ten-week online class, which included regular homework, weekly calls, and an assigned accountability partner. Her partner, Jaime, was an Australian woman living in Vancouver, BC, and together they explored boundaries, intimacy, communication, and having difficult conversations. The class’s emphasis on practice and reflection helped Susanna develop new behavioral habits that facilitated meaningful change.

From Theory to Practice

One of the biggest challenges Susanna faced was putting the theory into practice. However, with time, she began to realize the importance of establishing trust and communication in relationships. Although she initially resisted the idea of refraining from sex for six months into a relationship, she now sees the value in it.

The Ripple Effect of Healthy Boundaries

Setting healthy boundaries has had a profound impact on Susanna’s career and personal life. She’s become confident in identifying and asking for what she needs, and she no longer tolerates behavior that compromises her well-being. This newfound confidence has transformed her friendships, dating relationships, and work relationships.

Why Everyone Should Learn to Set Healthy Boundaries

In today’s gig economy, where commitment, loyalty, and persistence are being redefined, setting healthy boundaries is more crucial than ever. Whether in personal or professional relationships, knowing what you need to feel safe and secure can make all the difference. Susanna believes that everyone should learn to set healthy boundaries, as it’s essential for building confidence, self-esteem, and strong relationships.

Embracing Vulnerability and Taking the Leap

For those who want to add a new skill to their repertoire but are hesitant due to time constraints or intimidation, Susanna’s advice is simple: you can’t afford not to do this. The investment of time and effort is minimal compared to the transformative power of setting healthy boundaries. Be prepared to get comfortable with vulnerability, and remember that forty hours over ten weeks can lead to a lifetime of positive change.