Boundaries to the rescue! If you are one of those people overwhelmed with too much to do, conflicting priorities, or confusion about what to do and what not to do, boundaries will be your new friend. This month we are devoting our blog articles and podcasts to this important subject, so I hope you will be motivated to strengthen and use your boundaries to be even more successful.

I believe that identifying, clarifying, establishing, communicating and honoring your boundaries can be a real key to your success. A few words about this...

• Boundaries can be physical and tangible or mental and intangible. The mental ones are a bit subtler, but just as or more important.
• Identifying and clarifying your boundaries are the first steps to establishing your limits. Whether they are mental, emotional, spiritual or physical, you probably have a general idea of what they are, even though you haven't articulated them.
• Establishing boundaries works best when you acknowledge them to yourself. Many of my clients write their boundaries — it gives strength to them at times when they might be challenged.
• Communicating your boundaries is key to giving them life. While it is good for you to be clear on them, it adds strength to your boundaries when you share them at the appropriate time in a kind and professional way.
• Finally, honoring your boundaries — every time — paves the road to your success. It provides predictability not only for yourself, but for others. Why would you allow one person to smoke in your home, and not another? Why would you allow a co-worker to swear at you and not another? Why would you listen to gossip from one person and not another?

Read on for more tips about setting boundaries, and watch for more this month on our Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook pages and our blog. We'll love to see your comments.

Setting Boundaries with Toxic People (25 second read, and worth it!)

Say "No" Set Boundaries — Get More Done (20 second read)

How to Say NO – Nicely (20 second read)

You can set boundaries around and with your electronica as well. Remember, YOU control IT. Here are some tips:

• Set a family focus boundary. Turn off the PDA when you walk in the door, or at dinner, or during family time.
• Set a work focus boundary. Close your CRT or PDA for a set period when working on an important project.
• Set a wind down boundary. Close all electronica at least an hour before going to bed to allow your body and mind to prepare for sleep.

You can also change settings on your PDA to not be disturbed during certain times — allow the technology to be your friend! Here's an example.

"Boundaries are, in simple terms, the recognition of personal space." — Asa Don Brown

"True strength is found in standing firm, yet bending gently." — Author unknown.

"No" is a complete sentence." — Anne Lamott

How clear are you on your boundaries? This month, make the opportunity to write at least 10 boundaries that you intend to honor consistently, go forward. Categories can include personal, email, financial, physical, interpersonal, sharing, word usage, etc., etc.