Set boundaries for yourself and your diabetes for the holidays

You need boundaries when you are pressured into doing things you don’t want to do and then feel frustrated, resentful and anxious. You may feel pushed aside, ignored or discounted. You may also notice that gnawing feeling inside that something is wrong but you don’t feel you can do anything about it.

Think of boundaries as locking your house and only admitting people who honor and respect who you are and what you say. Another way to think about boundaries is with kids. You set a lot of boundaries for your kids when they are little. No touching the hot stove; no running out into the street; no jumping off the fridge (well, no climbing up on the fridge in the first place). As they get older, you help them set boundaries like don’t get in the car with a stranger or anyone that makes you feel creepy. You are teaching them to follow their gut instincts and empowering them to say NO.

How do you go about setting boundaries for yourself?

First, you decide what you will and won’t tolerate. Be clear for yourself how you want to be treated. By being clear about your boundaries and letting others know what your boundaries are, you are teaching people how to treat you. In turn, you learn how to treat others as you respect their boundaries.

Next, speak up! If you are asked to do something that will interfere with all the other things you have scheduled and this thing will take a lot of time, energy and effort, say no. You don’t owe anyone an explanation. If that makes you uncomfortable, practice a few lines you can use that will END the conversation, not invite more ‘haggling.’ EX: “Mary, I really need your help getting everything done for this huge party the committee charged me with doing.” You: “No, my schedule is already full. You’ll have to ask someone else on the committee.”

If you need help or support with something, ASK. Respect the people who say No and find someone who will say Yes.

Boundaries are about loving yourself and keeping yourself safe. They are especially important for your diabetes. You are already setting boundaries around the type and amount of food you eat and more. With the holidays, there is ‘suddenly’ a storm of sweet sugary drinks and food, shopping, decorating, cleaning, cooking, gift wrapping and parties. Many of these events are pleasant and joyous. However, many are filled with stress, tension, anger and frustration.

How do you deal with the food? How do you deal with the tension and stress? How do you stay sane if you have to do all the work? Setting boundaries can make your life much better.

Dr Elaine

Free Webinar: "How To Get Your A1C to 5.7% and keep it there during the holidays." https://tinyurl.com/yr3t6v3n

This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or healthcare provider. Please consult your healthcare provider for advice about a specific medical condition.

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