Boundaries are a vital part of maintaining healthy relationships. They are stated limits that build integrity and authenticity in our relationships with others. Setting Healthy Boundaries lets others know what is OK and what is NOT OK.
When our boundaries are respected, we feel safe and protected. But when someone crosses a line, it creates an emotional response in us that leads us to protect and defend ourselves. Deciding what these boundaries are is important and may not always be easy to figure out. Fears about how others may respond or a lack of belief in self-worth may hold us back from setting boundaries in our lives.
Here are 3 strategies for setting healthy boundaries with others-
1. Know your values.
Values are your moral compass. By knowing who you are and what you stand for you are able to be clear about what you want. With a clear sense of values, setting boundaries is more about you honoring yourself rather than doing something against another person.
2. Say what you mean and mean what you say.
Be impeccable with your words. In talking authentically with others, they will be able to respect what you say and know where you stand. Consistency is the key to maintaining integrity of your boundaries. Act consistent with your words and others will recognize that you have a strong belief in them. It will also build self-esteem because you will trust yourself more when you set these boundaries. Read Embracing Your Authentic Self.
3. Trust yourself and have the courage to say no.
Maintaining your boundaries can be difficult too. When you believe in yourself, you will know that it is ok to give yourself permission to say no. It requires that you learn to say no respectfully and at the right time. Saying no in this way is an act of love for yourself and others. We may find this difficult because of a natural tendency to people please. But, be aware that you are the one who suffers if you don’t speak up because then you have violated your own boundaries. Read How to Say “No” Without being Rude. 5 Ways!
These are just a few ways to begin to build the practice of setting and maintaining healthy boundaries with others and yourself. Remember, boundaries keep you safe in the world and it is essential for helping us to connect more authentically and fully with others.
How do you set healthy boundaries in your relationships? What boundaries do you find most difficult to maintain? Join the conversation by responding in the comments section below.
- 5 Ways to Shift Negative Thinking [Video] - December 16, 2016
- 3 Strategies for Setting Healthy Boundaries - September 22, 2016
- 3 Steps to Finding a Relationship - March 10, 2016
10 comments
One way I set healthy boundaries is to really tune into myself and my feelings which allows me to gain a stronger understanding of my limits (including mental, physical, and emotional limits). If you really know and understand your limits, you’re more likely to be consistent with maintaining healthy relationships!
Saying “No” can be a way to practice self care and assert my boundaries. it’s a good reminder to think about this authentically be present for myself and others.
I often think about the difference between boundary violations and boundary crossings. I find that boundary violations are easier to pinpoint and respond to, because they typically cause me or another person distress. Boundary crossings can fall into that murky “grey area” where boundaries become blurred. Sometimes boundary crossings may be inadvertent, thoughtless, or can come from your own or another’s good intention – harder to spot! Paying close attention to my thoughts, feelings (particularly my bodily / nervous system sensations) often helps me identify a boundary issue.
Love this post! Especially the part about knowing your values. Those have helped me make decisions and set up boundaries in the past. Great job!
I would equal to add your journal to my blogroll gratify bowman me what mainstay should I use?
vivienne westwood uk http://www.viviennenwestwood.com
There are definitely quite a lot of particulars like that to take into consideration. That is a nice point to deliver up. I offer the ideas above as common inspiration however clearly there are questions just like the one you deliver up where crucial factor will probably be working in trustworthy good faith. I don?t know if greatest practices have emerged around things like that, however Im certain that your job is clearly identified as a good game. Anyway, in my language, there arent much good supply like this.
La Perla Bodywear http://www.laperela.com
Aw, this was a really great post. In theory Id like to write like this also taking time and real effort to make a good article but what can I say I procrastinate alot and never seem to get something done.
Berluti Sale http://www.berlutishoeshop.com
This in fact is my very first time i go to here. I found so numerous entertaining stuff in your site, in particular its argument. In the lots of testimonials in your writing, I guess I’m not the only one going through all the leisure here! Keep up the very good work.
Bordelle Stores http://www.shopuviviennewestwood.com
I really enjoy this template youve got going on on your site. What is the name of the theme by the way? I was thinking of using this style for the web site I am going to make for my school project.
La Perla Swim http://www.laperela.com
Cool. Your blog looks great, and I’m glad i’ve found something here worth adding to my favorites.
Giuseppe Zanotti uk http://www.giueseppezanotti.com