Setting Healthy Boundaries

Here we answer some of the most common questions we get asked about setting boundaries and why they are important: 

Q. What are boundaries? 

A. A boundary can be thought of as an invisible line that represents guidelines, rules, and limits on how you allow yourself to be treated.  Setting boundaries is a form of self-love and self-care 

Q. What do healthy boundaries look like?

A. Healthy boundaries are built off of personal values and can help creates your identity.  They are not universal, instead, a healthy boundary is specific to each person.  Some benefits of healthy boundaries include good mental health, good emotional health, and a developed identity.

Q. Who should I set boundaries for?

A. You can set boundaries with anyone! Family, romantic partners, colleagues, friends, neighbors, and classmates.  They can vary from emotional, physiological, physical, or financial boundaries (etc).  Remember boundaries can be set with anyone including yourself! 

Q. How to apply a new boundary? 

A. Setting new boundaries can be difficult.  The following are 3 tips on how to apply a new boundary 

Identify the boundary 

Communicate your new boundary and possible consequence if it is to be violated

Follow through on the new boundary 

Q. What do you do when someone violates your boundaries?

A.  When setting a boundary there should be a consequence communicated to the other person(s) of what was to happen if your boundary is violated.  The most important thing to do when someone violates your boundary is to follow through on the consequence. Remember a consequence is not revenge or punishment, instead, it is a form of protecting and enforcing the boundary.

Q. Why are boundaries so hard? 

A. Boundaries can be hard because it puts an end to people-pleasing and not everyone will agree or understand your boundary.  Remember it is not your responsibility to have another person(s) agree with your boundary.