5 Books To Read If You Struggle With Setting Boundaries
5 Books You Need To Read If You Struggle With Setting Boundaries
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Healthy boundaries are the foundation of a strong mental health journey.
Boundaries are the personal, emotional, social, financial, or mental limits we place in our lives to maintain a sense of peace and have healthy relationships. They are the behaviors we decide are acceptable in our lives. They can be set internally (the limits we place on ourselves) or external (the limits we place on others). Boundaries help you understand and communicate your needs.
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Setting healthy boundaries is an essential form of self care and mental wellness. But creating, communicating, and maintaining boundaries in real life is easier said than done. This can be especially true for Black women, who are often praised for being self-sacrificing superwomen, fulfilling everyone’s needs but our own while suffering in silence.
If this describes you, consider this your sign to speak up and set some boundaries. Setting boundaries can be difficult. But they are necessary for finding balance and peace in your life and in your relationships.
If you’re a boundary beginner and you’re still learning about boundaries and how they fit into your life, we’ve got your study guide right here. Check out the following books that are filled with stories and strategies on healthy communication and finding peace in your relationships and in your life.
Books on Boundaries
“Rest Is Resistance: A Manifesto” by Tricia Hersey
If you’re looking for a sign, this is it: sit yo’ self down! From the founder and creator of The Nap Ministry, Tricia Hersey’s book is a call to action for Black folks to break free of the pressures of grind culture and choose themselves and their own needs.
“Set Boundaries, Find Peace: A Guide to Reclaiming Yourself” by Nedra Glover Tawwab
Often referred to as the boundary bible, “Set Boundaries, Find Peace” is the New York Times Bestselling book from therapist Nedra Glover Tawwab that breaks down what boundaries are, how to confidently say “no,” and how to be assertive without offending others. Try out the accompanying workbook with additional resources to help you set boundaries your way.
“The Sugar Jar: Create Boundaries, Embrace Self Healing, and Enjoy The Sweet Things In Life” by Yasmine Cheyenne
Yasmine uses a metaphor of a sugar jar to explore what it looks like when you give more than what you’ve got and how sweet it is when you keep a little sugar for yourself. In a collection of personal essays and prompts, “The Sugar Jar” serves as a gentle exploration of how to change your behavior and live your best life.
“The New Black Woman: Loves Herself, Has Boundaries, and Heals Every Day” by Marita Golden
The road to boundaries doesn’t have to be a struggle. It’s possible to evolve with ease. World renown author Marita Golden’s latest book guides readers through contemplative practices like meditation and affirmation that helped her on her personal health journey and will help you gain confidence to set boundaries and improve your life.
“I’m Not Yelling: A Black Woman’s Guide to Navigating The Workplace” by Elizabeth Leiba
Nowhere are healthy boundaries more necessary than in the workplace, when the pressures of productivity and financial stability can cause us to embrace unhealthy communication and work habits. Enter Elizabeth Leiba with her debut book that explores the particular burden Black women carry in the office. Filled with statistics, personal anecdotes, strategies, and success stories, “I’m Not Yelling” is a guide to finding (and using!) your voice.
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Healthy boundaries don’t happen overnight. But they’re worth putting into practice. Books are no replacement for therapy and implementation of confident communication techniques. But reading any of the books on our list can be a good place to start on your mental health journey.
Remember: Boundaries help you love others and love yourself at the same time.
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