How can I set limits without reaching a breaking point?

Reaching the breaking point is not ideal, and you cannot provide the support your loved one needs when you are in this place. As a result, hitting this point can set the progress you and your loved one have made back. By establishing and knowing your limits, you can control your emotions and prevent yourself from reaching your breaking point. 

Your Breaking Point Control

Notice how your breaking point tends to be at times when you don't feel in control?. That indicates that breaking down happens as a reaction to something that you can't control. 

How to Build Awareness

To build awareness and acceptance of your limits, and to avoid that breaking point, ask yourself the following questions:

• What is it you dread about reaching your breaking point? 
• What are the best and worst outcomes, and how can you prepare? 
• How can you manage your anger or other negative emotions before they get out of control?
• What can you do to settle your anxiety or other negative emotions so that you can think clearly and make good decisions?
• What part of your current situation can you control?

The answers to these questions can provide you with great insight and help you set your limits. Consequently, you'll learn to manage your emotions and, best of all, avoid burnout and break down.

Why Self-Awareness Helps

Exercises that build self-awareness can help you better notice the signs that you've reached your limit. A fewself-awareness exercises include practicing mindfulness, writing in a journal each day, meditation, yoga, or even just talking to someone to share your feelings and release pent-up emotions.

You also need to spend time on self-care.  You cannot help your loved one if you don't take care of yourself as well. Ultimately, you need to respect your limits and build resilience to prevent reaching your breaking point.