When you think of a boundary, what comes to mind? You might think of something like a property line or the defining lines of a shape. Boundaries show where one thing ends and another begins. Boundaries in a relationship are kind of like this; they help each person figure out where one person ends and the other begins. In short, boundaries help you define what you are comfortable with and how you would like to be treated by others. They apply to any kind of relationship you have – whether with a friend, family member, partner or anyone else in your life.
I often notice that when there are people in our lives that aren't respecting boundaries, it's usually because we are not holding ourselves accountable and following through with our boundaries we set for ourselves. That's a really round about way of saying that we have to set boundaries for ourselves and follow through. This may show up in multiple types of relationships. A partner coming in and out of your life constantly promising to make changes but still showing the same red flags. Possibly, a friend that tends to take advantage of your kindness and walks all over you. In both of these cases there is a person in your life that is showing you over and over who they are. In these scenarios, I would suggest focusing on deciding what is most important to you. Help identify ways to notice when someone is not respecting your boundaries. Best ways to communicate what needs to shift in the relationship. And finally, feeling confident in yourself and your choices so that you can follow through with your own boundaries and make tough decisions.
Boundaries are important to grow and maintain healthy relationships.
