Episode 6 - Boundaries, Growth & Living Authentically with Rachel Lavin
By Jessica Garrison
Anyone who’s been following our network for a while is probably familiar with our next guest, Rachel Lavin. Rachel is a huge supporter of our network, appearing on our podcast previously in season 5, our Substack live, our radio show, our YouTube panel show, and now she is back to give us an update on everything she’s been learning and experiencing. Rachel is kind, loyal, and nonjudgmental, all of which become clear shortly after listening to her speak.
Since being on her embracing layers journey, Rachel is more in tune with her boundaries. She says that she walks around lighter, not having the constant or overwhelming guilt resting on her shoulders. Not only this, but she also is able to be of better service to people because she isn’t stretched too thin—she can give to herself and give back to others because she sticks to her boundaries. She has a healthier outlook as well as healthier engagements with people. Boundaries can be intimidating at first, but the results are worth it.
Rachel is constantly evolving, as we all should be. We evolve over time, learning the best way to live with ourselves as well as with other people and the crazy world around us. Rachel tells herself, “I will get through this.” Even if it seems like the end of the world, the moon will come out at night, the sun will come out in the morning, and you will get through it. By having these securities and boundaries in place, Rachel is able to live authentically, saying yes to things she is passionate about and saying no to things that don't serve her. Rachel also talks about not guilting someone when they say no, and she acknowledges that it works both ways. If someone says no to Rachel, she doesn’t badger them until they say yes or guilt them for their response. She accepts and respects people’s boundaries the way she wants people to do with her.
It’s all about meeting people where they are, which we have heard multiple times throughout the podcast. You can’t do the work for someone, and Rachel mentions that while discussing self care and boundaries. You can really want it for someone, but if they aren’t willing to put the work in, then there’s nothing you can do. It’s easier said than done to walk away when you want to see someone flourish, but it’s a journey they have to decide to go on for themselves. Rachel has learned to offer her support for people, letting them know she’s there when they’re ready. You can’t let it overwhelm your mind thinking about all the things you can’t change. Do what is best for you, offer your support or resources, and continue living your healthiest life because no one else will live it for you.
If you want more of Rachel, there is plenty to explore. Her first podcast episode, “Embracing Body Love” is available on our website to listen back to and compare to this one. You can also check out our YouTube page to see her on the Together We F.E.E.L YouTube panel or check out Substack for the many conversations that were hosted on our radio show including, “The Power of Supporting & Empowering Girl Dads,” “Beauty, Beauty Privilege & Summer Body Expectations,” and “We’ve Got Books!” (just to name a few). I’m sure we will be seeing her again soon, and I look forward to it!
Ways to Engage: Think of an area in your life that you need help with, even if it’s small. Reach out, ask for help, and accept the help that comes your way. We have a hard time admitting when we need someone’s help, but we can retrain ourselves to open up more and learn that we don’t have to carry it all ourselves.