Set Boundaries and Save Your Health

Too often, it’s easy to get caught up in doing too much, or saying yes to too many people. Unfortunately, without boundaries, you can see a very real impact on your health and, by extension, your finances.

Lack of Sleep and Stress

One of the issues with having too much to do is that you often don’t get the sleep you need. On top of that, there is the stress factor. We know that lack of sleep can cause health problems, as well as contributing to impaired judgment and emotional health issues. Stress is another problem that can cause problems. Studies have linked to prolonged stress and anxiety to heart problems, as well as the risk of depression.

It’s natural to want to help others, dropping everything to provide support for loved ones. We want to help at our kids’ schools, and drive them to numerous extracurricular activities so that they can enjoy themselves and learn valuable skills. After a while, though, all of that running around and saying yes all the time adds up.

Your physical and emotional health can deteriorate, straining relationships, and slowing you down… even leading to more serious health conditions. At some point, you have to learn to say no, and take some time for yourself, or risk health problems.

The Cost of Doing Too Much

Poor health can be expensive. Chronic conditions that can develop as a result of lack of sleep and stress cost money over time. The illnesses that come as a result of a rundown immune system require treatment. One of the best ways to save money is to stay healthy. Set boundaries so that you aren’t straining yourself to the point of exhaustion and anxiety. Stick to those boundaries, and you’ll save money since you won’t be spending it on trying to get well after your attempts to be everything to everyone eventually take their toll.

Don’t forget, too, the direct costs involved in doing too much. It’s fun for kids to be involved, but do you really need each of your kids to be involved in five activities? Extracurricular activities start to add up, and that means a huge hit on your pocketbook, as well as your sanity. Instead, help your child learn a valuable lesson in priorities by making him or her choose a couple of favorite activities. You’ll save money, and you won’t be so stressed.

Also, set boundaries when it comes to financially helping friends and family. You may want to help, but it doesn’t make sense to put your financial future in danger. If you aren’t careful, you could easily go from helipng others to being the one who needs help. Really consider whether or not you can afford to be helpful in that way, and say no if it isn’t really feasible.

While it’s important to help others, at the same time we have to be realistic about your limits and boundaries. Sometimes, you really do have to say no. Recognize these times, and then take a step back and do what you need to keep yourself healthy in body and mind.