Setting boundaries (and sticking to them) leads to better self-confidence, and improved self-confidence leads to better boundaries.

I, too, have been terrified in the past about setting boundaries with colleagues, clients, and partners. It took me years to get comfortable with setting and enforcing boundaries. The biggest fear I see expressed, and the one I've experienced myself, is a fear of making others angry and ultimately losing relationships.

Oddly, we have this deeply ingrained fear that if we take care of ourselves, put ourselves first, and proceed honestly with a relationship, we "might make others angry."

When we set boundaries, we must remove ourselves from an attachment to a particular outcome, which will help alleviate fear.

Also, keep in mind two reasons you must set boundaries despite the fear:

• Proceeding with a relationship that is built on lies, pretense, and resentment, leads to distrust and disrespect

• You do not want to work with clients who don't desire that you take care of yourself and your own mental health.

Of course, there are many valid reasons to set boundaries, even when you are fearful. Keeping in mind the two thoughts above may ease the fear, especially when you are just getting started with learning how to set boundaries.

Setting boundaries and ultimately honoring those boundaries isn't easy work.

Honoring yourself and what is authentic for you, along with the willingness to let other people interpret it how they will, is difficult, but well worth it. That's why it's important not to be "attached" to an outcome or reaction when you set a boundary

Further, you do not have to explain boundary setting or try to convince anyone to agree with your boundary.

If someone chooses to be upset or offended by your boundaries, keep in mind that it is not your fault. Just do your best to approach the boundary setting from a proactive and positive mindset, not out of a heated reaction or anger.

The people that you want to work with will learn from you, and ultimately learn the importance of boundary setting in their own lives!

What is your reason "why" when it comes to setting boundaries, despite fear?