Submitted by Susan Stewart of Perfectly Placed

“Boundaries” is a word we don’t like much. Most of us cringe at the idea of being restricted. We prefer the thought of doing whatever we want and having more freedom. The irony, however, is that having boundaries actually provides freedom. Let’s look at how that takes place.

Most moms are overwhelmed with the decisions that need to be made when going through their children’s’ backpacks. Not having boundaries set makes each paper or art project an excruciating decision of whether it should be saved or tossed.

Let’s say, on the other hand, that you have a boundary of saving five papers or pieces of artwork a year. Multiply that by 18 years and you’re getting close to 100 items. With the boundary clarified, each time you pick up a paper you ask the question, “Is this paper worthy of only five things I’m saving this year?” You’ve now been released from the guilt of throwing most of it away and the decision is so much easier.

This same concept carries over into other areas like grocery shopping. With no boundaries set, how much is enough? Food ends up expiring before it can be eaten, and no one can find anything because there is so much of it. When you set a boundary for snacks, cereal, canned goods, etc., you know when you have enough. If you overbuy, it doesn’t fit in the designated area, so you eventually learn to buy only enough to fit in the space you’ve been given. Having the boundary frees you from the emotional decision of how much.

Set boundaries for yourself in various areas of your life – purchases, diet and finances – and experience the freedom that goes along with it.

Stewart is the owner and founder of Perfectly Placed, which was established in 2004. Perfectly Placed is passionate about bringing women balance in their home, work and lives through organization.

As of Nov. 11, 2011, this service provider was highly rated on Angie’s List. Ratings are subject to change based on consumer feedback, so check AngiesList.com for the most up-to-date reviews. The views expressed by this author do not necessarily reflect those of Angie’s List.