Kind Limits – Take a Look

Here is a sample of a Kind Limits lesson. Remember… Kind to Me, Kind to Others, Kind to Us…

Take a Look…

Our Inner Circle can be our greatest supporters. We get stuck when there is a mismatch between our wants, needs or expectations and the way in which our Inner Circle shows up for us.

Sometimes, we want to lean on someone in a way in which they just are not suited. Just like you, they have preferences and values – strengths and areas that are, well, not strengths. Upon closer examination, we can reduce discouragement and deepen these relationships when we realign our expectations.

The beauty of your inner circle is that you have them in your life for a reason. Sometimes, it’s a family connection and the relationship has grown and stood the test of time. Sometimes, it’s a long friendship that you share so much history. Other times, they are a new friend and you are still exploring the relationship. And yet, your inner circle could include some folks whose character is questionable, though you count on them.

Handout: KL Inner Circle Handout
Print the handout and do the following exercise

Take some time to get up close and personal about your inner circle.

1. Write the names of people closest to you in the Inner Circle circle. This may be 1-3 people. By now, it goes without saying, but just in case… these are YOUR people… not where others believe they “should” be in your life. This is your exercise, no one has to see it.

2. Next, identify and write the names of friends and family. You may have 1 person or many. I have a huge extended family, though not all of them fit in the friends and family circle.

3. Then, identify folks that are other family members, co-workers, aquaintances and other people that you connect with regularly or rely on. This may a be a neighbor or someone you share interests in that you talk to often. We sometimes see these people more than those we normally think of having stronger bonds and relationships.

4. Lastly, identify professionals or regular folks you have in your life and place them outside of the circle. These may be your doctor, dental hygienist or the grocery store cashier. These are consistent people in your life.

Share: What do you notice about your inner circle?