5 Tips for Healthy Boundaries

Boundaries

Have you heard about healthy boundaries? Do you know what they look like? A lot of people have a vague idea but are not sure.
In general, boundaries can be broken down into porous, healthy and rigid types. Oversharing, allowing anyone to get close and having difficulty saying no are examples of a person with porous boundaries.
Rigid boundaries are displayed in those who have a great deal of trouble letting people get close, distrust of others, automatically saying no and detachment from problems.
Healthy boundaries are displayed when someone is able to say no when necessary, communicating appropriately, being supportive without too much involvement and assertiveness,

Following are a few tips about creating healthy boundaries:
1. Know your limits. Be specific when letting someone know what your limits are. For example, if you are only free for 30 minutes, say that and stick to it. Don't allow another person to push past your limit.
2. Know your values. If, for example, you value family don't stay late at work. End your day on time so that you have the time to spend on what you value most.
3. Know your emotions: If you are feeling resentful or uncomfortable about a. situation examine where that's coming from. Are you feeling taken advantage of? If so, set an appropriate boundary.
4. Be assertive. If you know what you need, say it. Learn to say no without guilt or even explanation. You are allowed to say no.
5. Honour other people's boundaries. It's the 'do unto others as you would have them do to you' concept. Get used to honouring others' time limits, emotional boundaries, professional boundaries etc.

If you are having trouble setting boundaries, a good start is to consider your personal values.