What are healthy boundaries within relationships? It is the limits you set for YOURSELF within these relationships. I want to repeat that again, the limits you set for YOURSELF! Boundaries are for you, not the other person. Here are some tips on how to set healthy boundaries:

• Know your limits - We all have our limits and it is important for you to determine what is and is not acceptable for you - this means something different to everyone. 

• Be assertive - It is okay to say NO! Being assertive does not mean you have to jerk about setting healthy boundaries. Being assertive means standing up for yourself and being respectful of others at the same time. When you’re asserting your boundaries, make sure to clearly communicate what you will and will not do - don’t expect that others will be able to interpret what you’re saying, make it very clear to them. 

• Respect yourself and others - Respecting your own needs and others can be a difficult balancing act but can be achieved. 

• Be persistent - Even when you set clear boundaries, others will still try to push them as much as they can. Be persistent and firm about your boundaries and if you give in even a little bit, then it could be a downward spiral from there. 

Setting healthy boundaries can be difficult to establish. If you want to learn how to set healthy boundaries, consider scheduling an appointment for us to discuss.