What are Personal Boundaries?

I used to get very annoyed whenever anyone used the word boundaries or when someone claimed they were 'triggered.' I was annoyed because I didn't have any for the longest time. Thanks to a dear family member, I was taught just how vital these two words are for any relationship.

I am learning to use and respect my and others' boundaries. For most of my life, I had no limits or boundaries. I would let just about anyone into my life as long as we were having a good time. As time passed, this created a snowball effect of evermore destructive relationship patterns with others and myself. The problem stemmed from a deep sense of not belonging or being worthy. I've come to find in myself and others just how detrimental boundaries can be as well. They can be a way to avoid and not deal with the pain of relationships. For me, they are slowly and cautiously getting to know someone and teaching somebody how to respect you. Ideally, boundaries are to be used to slowly integrate people back into your life at your own pace. My pendulum of limitations completely swung to the opposite side. I became almost paranoid about everybody, even the most genuine people, and shut people out for little things. Being aware of the extremes is of utmost importance to me with this beautiful dance of life, we are all learning together.

It's been eight years now learning this dance, and the further I stay true and not put up with bullshit, the more I attract the people and the opportunities meant for me.