Kim’s Realities

My personal story of living with 18 Mental Illnesses as a Mom and a SisterMom to my adult special needs brother.

[kimsrealities-blog]

I learned that my body is an Endomorph and an Hour Glass. With this newfound knowledge, I did some heavy research into what workouts best suit my Peaches (my body!), nutrition and incorporated how much sleep I need to help battle my MIs each day and fulfill my daily responsibilities. So next week I will put it all into practice! Let us see if I can shed more LBS!! #weightloss2019 #weightlossgoals #weightlossplan #positivebeginningsfitness (at Exmore, Virginia) https://www.instagram.com/p/BvfgVPSFFBo/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=10stp2z6f5uca

[kimsrealities-blog]

What do you do when you feel down? Above are some great ideas but you can tweak it to fit your unique self and lifestyle. Personally I watch uplifting videos, listen to positive podcasts, take a walk or be in nature, do so me photography; I mediate or read a really inspiring book or bake something for our neighbor. Or I workout through yard work and housework or my mini stepper. Whatever you find uplifting, inspiring, positive do it the next time you feel down. If you already have some share below. I love new ideas!!

[kimsrealities-blog]

How to Set Boundaries

Boundaries are like a fence protecting you from all that is outside of your fence. You can visualize it as a white picket fence or an electric one. Your boundaries will indeed hurt some people and upset others. However it must be done for our wellbeing.

So how do I set boundaries?

1. Decide on a time to discuss your boundaries with others. Avoid this talk if you are feeling frustrated or angry. Do this when level headed and politely. And friendly.

2. Tell those how you feel when your boundaries are not respected and be honest. A lot of the time people have no idea especially if we never have voiced them.

3. State your needs clearly and firmly. Be simple and brief as possible.

4. Keep a positive tone. Maybe even ask them about theirs.

5. Listen to their feedback without interrupting them.

6. Remind people of your boundaries if needed.

7. Be consistent.

8. Avoid backing down or apologizing. You deserve to have your boundaries respected.

9. Know when to walk away from the relationship if needed. Sometimes it’s too toxic to stay.

10. Give yourself permission to put yourself first.

11. Make a list of things that matter most to you.

12. Think about what you don’t want to compromise on.

13. Identify any situation that makes you feel resentful or overwhelmed.

14. Create a self-care strategy. Meet your own physical and emotional needs.

15. Seek support. Support groups are plenty online or maybe have your friends/family support you.

I definitely hope that this will be of some help for you in creating healthy boundaries!

[kimsrealities-blog]

I struggle with sticking to my boundaries. I hate confrontation. Every time I state a boundary it seems to anger people rather than them just being respectful toward me. Having boundaries really is a blessing and gives you a peaceful state of mind! My next blog will be about how to set healthy boundaries.

[kimsrealities-blog]

It’s okay to say No. it’s okay to make sure your first priority. It’s okay to stay home because it’s just too much to go out. It’s okay to disappoint people by being you. You DON’T have to please anyone BUT YOU. Next time tell yourself that it’s okay to disappoint people when being you instead the person they want. You’re not a doll trying to live up to that person’s expectations then change yourself for another person. It’s okay to disappoint them by being you.

[kimsrealities-blog]

Only YOU give power to things. Power to your depression controlling you. Tired of negativity everywhere? Don’t give your attention to it. Focus on the positive and even share it. Only give the power to things that are positive. It doesn’t mean you’re ignoring the negative. We know it’s there but we choose not to dwell on it.

[kimsrealities-blog]

“1. How am I feeling? I am feeling depressed and sad that my Depressive Episode has arrived but I also feel hopeful because this won’t last forever. And the good thing with my Mental Illnesses? Everything has its own seasons but none last forever.

2. What’s not working? Giving into my depression and negative self-talk.

3. What is working? Trying to stay positive. Read inspirational articles or quotes, monitoring my self-talk and keep it positive.

4. What do I need? I need some time to pray for comfort from my God. Grab some coffee and take a mini break. Maybe read a book for a moment to take a ‘break’ from my depressive episode. Staying busy today will help me to stay out of self-pity.

5. What am I proud? I am proud of how strong I am and wise I’ve become in coping and managing my Mental Illnesses each day. I am proud that they’ve not stopped me from my responsibilities or from being a good Mom, sister and Partner.

6. What can I let go of? The lies of the enemy. Lies that I’m not good enough. Or how I mess everything up. All are lies. I am enough! I make mistakes, yes, but I don’t mess it ALL up. I DO get some things right and when I don’t that’s okay! I am only human and mistakes are just learning opportunities. Not setbacks.

1. How do I feel? I feel ready to take on my day!”

This is really helpful for me. This piece is from my journal. I wanted to share this in hopes that it can help others if they too practiced this Self-Check. What are your thoughts? Do you have useful tips you’d like to share also? It may help someone out too.