Boundaries
As helpers, we often take on the role of caretakers for others, putting their needs before our own. While this may seem like a noble approach, it can actually lead to burnout, compassion fatigue, and even moral distress. Nedra Tawab's book, "Set Boundaries, Find Peace," emphasizes the importance of creating boundaries in our personal and professional lives to create safety for ourselves and those we serve.
In the helping profession, boundaries can be difficult to set, especially when dealing with vulnerable populations or crisis situations. We may feel guilty or selfish for taking time for ourselves, or we may worry that our clients will feel abandoned if we set limits. However, Tawab argues that boundaries are essential for maintaining our own mental and emotional health, which in turn allows us to better serve our clients.
So what do boundaries look like in the helping profession? They may include things like:
Setting clear expectations with clients about your availability and response times.
Saying "no" to requests or tasks that are outside of your scope of practice or that you don't have the bandwidth for.
Taking breaks throughout the day to recharge and refresh.
Maintaining a work-life balance that allows you to engage in self-care activities outside of work.
Seeking support from colleagues, supervisors, or mental health professionals when needed.
By setting boundaries, we create a sense of safety and predictability for ourselves and those we serve. We also model healthy behaviors and demonstrate that it's okay to prioritize our own well-being. This can be especially important in the helping profession, where burnout and compassion fatigue are common.
Tawab also emphasizes that boundaries are not meant to be punitive or exclusionary. Rather, they are a way to create clarity and maintain healthy relationships. By setting boundaries, we can create a sense of balance and avoid the resentment or burnout that can come from feeling overextended.
Creating boundaries in the helping profession is essential for maintaining our own well-being and providing effective care to others. It's important to remember that boundaries are not a sign of weakness or selfishness, but rather a way to create safety and predictability for ourselves and our clients. By setting clear expectations, practicing self-care, and seeking support when needed, we can create healthy boundaries that benefit everyone involved.
