Part 13: A Final Word About Boundaries
The Purpose of Boundaries We don’t set boundaries to control other people. Boundaries are meant to serve and protect what matters most to us. They allow us to live our lives on our terms. Without boundaries, we’re at the mercy of agendas, feelings and circumstances. At the end of the…
Part 12: Successful vs. Unsuccessful Boundaries
Either your boundaries are successful or they’re not. They either serve you or they don’t. Do they make your life better and more productive, or add stress and frustration? How can you know if they’re working? Evaluating Your Boundaries Don’t make this more complicated than it needs to be. Keep…
Part 11: Dealing With People Who Resist Your Boundaries
People will resist and test your boundaries (you will even resist your boundaries occasionally). The important thing isn’t knowing that your boundaries will be tested, but how to protect them in firm yet polite and courteous ways. Prepare for Resistance Simply knowing and acknowledging that people will resist your boundaries…
Part 10: Setting Boundaries with Yourself
When we think of setting boundaries, we usually think of relationships with other people and how we expect to be treated. But, some of the most important boundaries we will ever create are the ones we set with ourselves. One of your most important relationships is the one you have…
Part 8: Boundaries Within Families
Boundaries within families are important. Having boundaries for your spouse and children will create a happier marriage and home life. Time & Space Boundaries Marriage is one of the most challenging yet joyful relationships anyone can experience. But your relationship with your partner doesn’t automatically get easier when you get…
Part 7: Boundaries in Dating, Continued
The Importance of Giving Each Other Space Few things are more exciting than when you first start dating someone who’s a lot of fun and you want to get to know better. It makes you want to spend ALL your time with them! It’s easy to lose yourself in the…
Part 6: Setting Boundaries in Dating
Since this is a marriage blog, dating isn’t discussed much. But dating is a part of life, either before marriage or after divorce. So, let’s talk about boundaries in dating. Dating is fun and complicated. Most everyone would like to find true love but not everyone has the same beliefs…
Part 5: Enforcing Your Boundaries
How can people honor your boundaries if they don’t know about them? As it’s appropriate, share your boundaries with other people. Be Assertive but Kind… Make sure you’re assertive but kind. Try not to be aggressive or harsh. The trick is to be confident and graciously strong when communicating your…
Part 3: Why You Need Boundaries In Life and Love
Boundaries give you the freedom and space to live your life. Without them, you can’t be healthy or happy. But they can be tough to set and enforce. Here’s why: 1. Boundaries require you to put your needs and priorities first It isn’t easy putting yourself first because it feels…
Part 2: Why You Need Boundaries in Love and Life
Boundaries inform people about what matters most to you and how you manage your time, life, and energy. They demonstrate your beliefs, priorities, and values. Just as we use fences and gates to protect our personal property, boundaries are the invisible fences that protect our wellbeing. In general, there are…