Setting Boundaries
by Jacqueline Harris
Understanding and setting boundaries may seem easy but it can be a lifelong challenge.
I have come to realize that some people even think boundary setting is a negative thing. In all reality, it’s a healthy expression of your authentic feelings. Understanding your boundaries is a strong indication that you are in touch with your emotions. Learning to set boundaries reflects respecting your own needs as well as the needs of others.
Setting boundaries takes time and practice though. Check out the worksheet below for an introduction to setting boundaries.
Xo Jackie
Setting Boundaries
Personal boundaries are the limits and rules we set for ourselves within relationships. A person with healthy boundaries can say “no” to others when they want to, but they are also comfortable opening themselves up to intimacy and close relationships.
Know Your Boundaries
Boundaries should be based on your values, or the things that are important to you. For example, if you value spending time with family, set firm boundaries about working late.
Your boundaries are yours, and yours alone. Many of your boundaries might align with those who are close to you, but others will be unique.
Know your boundaries before entering a situation. This will make it less likely you’ll do something you’re not comfortable with.
What to Say
You always have the right to say “no”. When doing so, express yourself clearly and without ambiguity so there is no doubt about what you want.
“I’m not comfortable with this”
“I can’t do that for you”
“This is not acceptable”
“Please don’t do that”
“This doesn’t work for me”
“I’m drawing the line at ___”
“Not at this time”
“I’ve decided not to”
“I don’t want to do that”
What to Do
Use Confident Body Language
Face the other person, make eye contact, and use a steady tone of voice at an appropriate volume (not too quiet, and not too loud).
Be Respectful
Avoid yelling, using put-downs, or giving the silent treatment. It’s okay to be firm, but your message will be better received if you are respectful.
Plan Ahead
Think about what you want to say, and how you will say it, before entering a difficult discussion. This can help you feel more confident about your position.
Compromise
When appropriate, listen and consider the needs of the other person. You never have to compromise, but give-and-take is part of any healthy relationship.
Instructions: Respond to the following practice questions as if you were really in each situation. Think about the language you would use to firmly state your boundary.
Examples
Situation: You notice your roommate has been eating your food in the fridge. You never discussed plans to share food, and don’t want them eating what you bought.
Response: “I’d like to keep our food separate. If there’s something of mine that you want, please ask me before taking it.”
Situation: Your friend calls you at 11 pm to discuss issues she is having with her boyfriend. You need to wake up at 6 am.
Response: “I can tell you’re upset. I want to talk to you, but I need to go to bed. Maybe we can talk tomorrow afternoon.”
Practice
Situation: You invited a friend over for the evening, but now it’s getting late. You would like to get ready for bed, but your friend seems unaware of how late it is.
Response:
Situation: A good friend asks you out on a date. You are not interested in being more than friends. You would like to let them down clearly, but gently.
Response:
Situation: You missed several days of work due to a medical condition. When you get back, a coworker asks what happened. You feel this information is personal, and do not want to share.
Response:
Situation: Your brother asks if you can watch his two young children on Saturday morning. You already have plans.
Response:
Situation: Your coworker is upset about their recent performance review. They start yelling and slamming their fist on their desk. This is making you very uncomfortable.
Response:
Situation: A salesperson comes to your door during dinner. You try to politely show disinterest, but they keep giving their sales pitch. You want to get back to dinner.
Response:
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