20. Navigating Conversations: 10 Boundary Statements to Protect Your Peace

Boundary statements play a crucial role in protecting one's emotional and mental well-being, particularly for individuals who have struggled with boundaries in the past.  In this episode of the Soul Wide Open podcast, host Michelle Renee dives into the crucial topic of boundary statements. Drawing from her personal experiences, including a home invasion that shattereed boundaries in her personal and professional life, Michelle discusses the challenges of learning to identify and verbalize healthy boundaries. She emphasizes the significance of setting new boundaries as a vital part of personal growth and self-awareness. Tune in as she reveals her top 10 boundary statements, offering insights and practical tips for fostering healthier relationships and self-care. Talking Points: 00:00 - What Are Boundary Statements 01:02 - Michelle Renee's Personal Journey 02:08 - The Challenge of Setting Boundaries 03:01 - The Importance of Self-Respect 04:05 - Self-Awareness and Growth 05:10 - Top 10 Boundary Statements Overview 06:05 - Boundary Statement #1: That Doesn't Work for Me 09:07 - Boundary Statement #2: Can You Please Explain What You Mean By That? 10:12 - Boundary Statement #3: Agree to Disagree 11:04 - Boundary Statement #4: Let's Take a Little Space 12:28 - Boundary Statement #5: Thank You, But I'm Okay Right Now 14:05 - Boundary Statement #6: I'm Not the Best Person to Talk to About This 16:27 - Boundary Statement #7: Let's Talk When We're Both Calm 18:08 - Boundary Statement #8: I Know I'm Putting Myself First 20:03 - Boundary Statement #9: Can We Talk About This Alone? 22:09 - Boundary Statement #10: The Power of Saying No 27:38 - Conclusion and Encouragement to Use Boundary Statements 31:49 - Final Thoughts and Invitation to Connect on Instagram  Quotes:  "What do I want my future to look like? Who do I want to become?" "The most important person that I care about liking me and loving me and not being angry with me or upset with me is me." "When you can say to somebody, I don't think I'm the best person to talk to about this. That is powerful." "It's okay to put your needs first and to express that." "If it doesn't work for you, it doesn't work for you, and that's okay." Stay Connected: Don't miss out on more inspiring conversations and stories on the Soul Wide Open podcast. Subscribe now and join us on this journey of healing, growth, and living with your soul wide open. Connect with Michelle: Website:  https://michelle-renee.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_michellerenee_ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@themichellerenee  Useful Resources: Order Nine Days on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4acIkt1 Soul Wide Open Podcast On Spotify: https://spoti.fi/49lrveA Join the Soul Wide Open Healing Community: www.facebook.com/groups/soulwideopen Watch the CBS/Paramount Plus Special on Michelle & Breea's Story: https://cbsn.w