Set Intentions, Set Boundaries: Your Path to Peace, Fulfillment, and the Life You Dream Of
- Jessica Day
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read
For a long time, I struggled with boundaries.
I let other people’s opinions and judgments dictate how I made decisions—even major life decisions. I silenced my intuition in favor of what I thought others expected of me. And while I looked “together” on the outside, inside I felt lost.
It wasn’t until I took the time to get really clear on my values that everything started to shift. That’s when I began to hear my inner voice again. That’s when I stopped making choices based on fear, guilt, or the need to please—and instead started setting intentions that aligned with who I truly am.
Why Values Matter
We often say we “know our values,” but do we really? Most people can name a few off the top of their head: family, success, authenticity, peace, freedom, etc.—but understanding what those values mean to you, specifically, is the key.
Take flexibility, for example. For me, it’s not just about having an open schedule. It means having control over how I spend my time, who I share it with, and what kind of work I’m doing. It means being able to take a walk mid-day or slow down when I need to. That’s my definition of flexibility—and it influences every decision I make.
Tip 1: Define Your Core Values
Take 10 minutes to Google a list of core values and circle the ones that resonate with you. Then, choose your top five and write down what each one really means to you. Go beyond the surface.
For example, if success is one of your values, ask yourself:
What does success look like for me?
How will I feel when I’ve achieved it?
What kind of life would align with that version of success?
This isn’t about picking the “right” values. It’s about owning the ones that reflect your truth.
Tip 2: Set Intentions Based on Your Values
Once you know what you value, start setting intentions that reflect those values. That’s when manifestation becomes real. You’re not just dreaming—you’re aligning your actions with your truth.
When 2021 began, I knew I needed connection. COVID had created distance, and I was craving real, meaningful relationships. So I set an intention: connect. That looked like reaching out to old friends, following up with new contacts, initiating conversations—not just liking posts on social media, but truly showing up. That one word—connect—shaped my year in a powerful way.
Boundaries Start With Values
You can’t set healthy boundaries without knowing what matters to you.
When life throws chaos your way (and it always will), you need a compass. Your values and intentions are that compass. They give you clarity on what to allow in and what to lovingly decline.
Here’s the truth: if you’re a recovering people-pleaser like me, setting boundaries can feel uncomfortable. You might worry about conflict or hurting someone’s feelings. But living in alignment with your values—living with integrity to yourself—is what brings true peace.
If something doesn’t support your values, it’s okay to say no. That doesn’t make you selfish—it makes you authentic.
Final Thought: Their Perception Is Not Your Reality
The way others see you is filtered through their own lens. You don’t control that. What you do control is how you see yourself and how you live your life.
When you’re clear on your values and set intentions that align with them, boundaries become natural. You stop living to please others and start living with purpose.
And that? That’s the beginning of your dream life.
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