What Are Your Boundaries?
Identifying what you need and expressing it to others to form a clear boundary can be really difficult to do.
What are some of your boundaries? How did you communicate that to those who needed to hear it? How did you enforce it?
I never had any problems with setting boundaries including work, family, friends and the groups I volunteer with. I know that if I don't taje care of myself I won't be able to do anything at all so setting boundaries is a must when living with this MonSter.
Thanks for sharing! Did the people around you understand your boundaries right away, or did it take some time? Knowing your limits and setting boundaries is so important when living with a chronic illness. It’s great that this hasn’t been a struggle for you because nothing should come before taking care of yourself. -Latoya (Team Member)
I used to feel like I had to say yes all my life. Once MS struck I had no choice but to start to say no. Now it’s automatic. People probably don’t understand & may think poorly of me. It’s unfortunate but it’s my reality. I don’t have a choice. It’s why I have no friends & very little family left in my life. It’s depressing, sad, & very lonely! MS sucks for me!!!
, while I think it's actually a good thing to learn how to say no, I am sorry your "no's" are due to your MS. That stinks. It would be nice if it were your choice! I am so sorry your MS has left you isolated and lonely. It's really freaking hard living with MS and not having support makes it that much harder.
I am sorry and please know, while it's not the same, this community is here 24/7, so pop in whenever you need to feel seen and supported.
Gentle Hugs, Erin, Team Member.
I’m think I’m doing pretty well at setting boundaries. For me it’s all about listening to my body to what I want to do at that moment and for the most part people are understanding this disease more. I’m learning to be more graceful with the words I speak so that way people are more understanding where I’m at. I give all the glory to God who guides my steps every day as I listen to him.
It took me a while to really start listening to my body, and I definitely felt the consequences later on. Learning to honor it from the start helps avoid so many unnecessary hardships. Navigating a chronic illness with the awareness and steadiness you have is truly admirable, and it clearly takes a lot of inner strength. Your active faith is such an anchor and seems like a cornerstone of your journey. Thank you so much for sharing your experience in this discussion. All the best, -Latoya (Team Member)
I used to feel that having MS was a huge deficit socially, interpersonally, and romantically. Even when I tried to set boundaries, explain what was happening in my body and its limitations, my needs were often disregarded.
I finally realized that having MS is a great way to discern between those whom I allow into my inner circle. I'm great with boundaries now. I've lost most of my family, a lot of friends, and it took me a long, long time to find a partner who was truly kind and could see me and BELIEVE me. It was worth the wait.
Oh I love this,
! This is a perfect example of how being true to yourself makes space for the people who truly belong in your life. Losing people hurts, especially family and long-time friends, but finding those who genuinely see you, believe you, and treat you with kindness makes the wait worth it. I'm soooo glad you have a partner that sees you for who you are and understands you. You deserve to feel valued and supported. 🧡 -Latoya (Team Member)
