Creating healthy boundaries means recognizing and enforcing limits and rules that we set for ourselves and within relationships. Personal boundaries define where you end and others begin and are determined by the amount of physical and emotional space you allow between yourself and others.

Unhealthy boundaries cause emotional pain that can lead to dependency, depression, anxiety, and even stress-induced physical illness. Setting boundaries is empowering and essential to maintain physical and emotional health.

Healthy Boundaries can help you:

• Communicate your needs and wants in a relationship

• Make time and space for positive meaningful interactions with others

• Set limits in a relationship in a way that is healthy

• Practice self-care and self-respect

When you identify the need to set a boundary, do it clearly, calmly, firmly, respectfully, and in as few words as possible. Be aware to not justify, latch out, or apologize for the boundary you are setting.

Remember: You are not responsible for the other person’s reaction to the boundary you are setting. You are only responsible for communicating your boundary in a respectful manner. If it upsets them, know it is their problem. 

Learning to set healthy boundaries is a process and it takes time. Remind yourself you have a right to self-care. Be patient and consistent!

Reference: Boundaries: Where You End and I Begin by Anne Katherine