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David Lawrence Centers

True Generosity

Begins with

NCH Gynecologic Oncology Caring for Yourself

Brings HIPEC to Collier County,

Offering One of the

By Jasmine Pagano,
Most Advanced Cancer Treatments Wellness Program Supervisor at DLC Wellness Institute
at David Lawrence Centers for Behavioral Health

Available Mbefore our own is the best way recognizing them as a natural part of healthy communication
Approaching boundaries with intention begins with
any of us have been taught that
putting everyone else’s needs
and daily life. Some ways to improve our mindset around setting
to be a good friend, partner or employee.
We worry that prioritizing our own needs boundaries include:
Reframe “no” as “yes”: Remember that turning down an extra
will be perceived as selfish or unkind. Over responsibility doesn’t make you selfish. It simply helps you protect
time, however, that mindset can take a toll, the time and energy needed to follow through on your existing
leading to burnout, resentment and strained responsibilities.
relationships. Making space for your own well-being and loving Be clear and kind: Be firm when expressing your boundaries,
yourself isn’t selfish. It is a responsible choice that allows you to while also being empathetic. Using phrases like “I appreciate the
show up authentically and effectively for others. offer, but I’m unable to take on anything else right now,” or “I can
Trying to show up for others when you’re not showing up for commit to this, but not that,” helps set expectations without being
yourself is like pouring from an empty cup. Interactions can come dismissive.
from a place of exhaustion, impatience or frustration. The help Accept some discomfort: Disappointment is a natural part of
you offer may come with underlying resentment, leaving everyone honest communication, but honoring your limits ultimately allows
feeling drained. When you’re rested and grounded, you have the you to engage with greater presence, stability and consistency.
capacity to respond thoughtfully rather than react. You are able to As you make adjustments to support your own well-being, it’s
be present, empathetic and patient, allowing your support to feel important to remember that loving yourself is not a reward to be
more genuine. earned. It’s a basic requirement for functioning well in your daily
One of the biggest hurdles to prioritizing personal well-being life.
can be the overwhelming feeling of guilt. This guilt can stem Taking care of yourself looks different for everyone and should
from social norms, that often equate an individual’s willingness be tailored to your individual needs. It may include prioritizing
to put others’ needs over their own as a sign of their character consistent sleep, taking a day off when rest is needed, journaling
or commitment. For people who define their value by how to process stress, talking openly with someone you trust, reading
much they do for others, stepping back can feel uncomfortable to unwind or learn something new or investing in personal or
or like a threat to their identity. Others also worry that setting professional growth.
boundaries or saying no will lead to conflict, disappointment or When you give yourself the care and attention you need, you
confrontation. become more resilient and steadier. You become better equipped
In reality, the brief discomfort of setting boundaries is much to show up with intention and clarity for your loved ones. Loving
less harmful than the long-term consequences of neglecting your yourself isn’t about choosing you over others. It’s about including
own needs. Boundaries aren’t walls meant to keep people out, but yourself among the people you care for.
rather guardrails to keep your relationships healthy. To learn more about the work DLC is doing to provide lifesaving
and life-changing behavioral health care to those in need,
visit DLCenters.org

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