Creating boundaries and learning to say no, has been a considerable learning curve for me over the last few years. It goes to show we are always learning. We are learning about ourselves, learning about life, learning about how to better protect ourselves from the negatives out there in the real world.

As an introvert who is anxious, empathic and highly sensitive, it is even more poignant that I protect myself and my energy. I have had to remove things that once played a big part in my life. Maybe you can relate. These are seven things I now say no to;

The News – I don't watch television, read the newspaper or look online. I don't want to know what is happening in the world. Not everyone understands this, especially my father, who thinks I should be informed about current events, but in my eyes, it is all negative and just makes me upset.

Toxic people who were once friends - I now have set boundaries around these people and have no time for them in my life. Each time I would meet up with these 'friends', I would feel yuck afterwards for hours. I have had to unfollow them on social media and say no to any invitations until they get the idea.

Coffee – I love a creamy warm latte any day of the week. However, I have had to eliminate coffee from my diet as it plays on my anxiety. Now I choose tea instead. It has taken some getting used to, but I feel so much better for it.

Job dealing with people – I am not comfortable answering the phone, I hate dealing with complaints, and I can't deal with people's problems. It stresses me. So, I choose not to. I have taken gap years throughout my career to allow time to recharge and re-energise.

Worrying – I have finally figured out that worrying is a waste of time — after so many sleepless nights. I was worried about my students, worrying what others think of me, or worrying about my family falling ill. My concerns would usually not eventuate anyway so I would be in 'fight-or-flight' mode which was causing unnecessary stress. Now I try not to worry. I go with the flow. I live and let live. It is harder to do than it sounds, but I attempt to be more mindful and live in the moment.

Being manipulated, unappreciated and disrespected – I've been there, treated like that and it's no good. It's pretty crap and has left many mental scars. I now understand I deserve better than that and am worth more than being treated like garbage. I am a stronger person because of it. I believe in myself and my self-worth. I no longer accept or put up with other's harmful behaviours.

Perfectionism – Perfectionism is an illusion. It is not possible and is an unachievable goal to chase. I have suffered from perfectionism for many years, especially in my career as a teacher. My to-do list was ridiculous. The time I put in was ridiculous. It was not realistic in the long term. It caused burn out and also put teachers offside as they could not keep up. My wake up call came when my doctor told me 'Laura they are not going to put 'dedicated teacher' on your gravestone'. I have to accept now that good is usually good enough.

Can you relate? Do you have to have boundaries as well? Feel free to join the conversation below.