Become a Boundary Artist – Gaining More Respect For Your Artist Time

Setting time boundaries is an necessary tool for an performer to learn to use.
Paula Eder of ” Locating Time Tips and E-zine” states, “If you can’t say no, may be you do not know where your boundaries are”.
Community service and donations are frequently requested from performer s. Paula suggest in her action step to “List each area you say “yes” to where you wish you’d said “no”. These are your 1st boundaries”. Boundary performers have learned to avoid saying “yes” and wishing they had said “no”. Creating more respect for their performer time. Careful planning…saying “yes” to things  we  really want to do, frees time for activities  we  really want to participate in.
When your day in the studio is finished, take time to prepare a priority list for the next day.  set ting boundaries with your list gets chores out of the way fast. Leaving time for work in the studio or community service. Most of all it leaves time for enjoying being an artist.
Being involved with family frequently consumes much of an  performer’s  time. Communication in this area is particularly necessary. You know your family is rushed, frazzled and work hard to make a living and, you want to help. But, your performer time needs consideration additionally. Discuss these needs, come to an agreement that leaves each person with time to help each other. The boundary performer is able to return to the studio feeling nice about time spent with family and time to create.
Prepare a sign that’s posted at the entrance of your work space that apparent ly indicates you’re working. When the sign is removed it signals that you’re free to talk and interact with others.
How do you  set boundaries? Do family and businesses need to learn your performer boundaries? Talk to me about the way you handle these situations and still make time to create your art.