Boundaries are a Must for Successful Relationships
Boundaries refer to the set of personal limits reinforcing your sense of autonomy and identity. These can be emotional, physical, sexual and spiritual. Setting them is your choice for protecting yourself and demanding respect. Boundaries can vary from one relationship to another and can also change after some time.
Determine Your Boundaries
Consider the things that you like and dislike. Know the attitudes, experiences and behaviors that make you feel uncomfortable. Clearly understanding your own boundaries can help you in firmly and clearly setting them and recognizing if they are already being violated.
Be Assertive in Communicating Your Boundaries
When you set boundaries, do this in a direct and clear manner. Determine the boundary issues and with the use of “I” statements, you have to own your feelings as far as these are concerned.
Create a Response to Violations of Your Boundaries
Come up with a possible response in case your boundaries are violated. You can reiterate your own boundaries again and acknowledge the failure to respect your limits. Make your partner aware of the consequences of disregarding your boundaries.
Follow Through Your Boundaries
Be firm and make sure that you follow through your boundaries and stick to the consequences that you have planned. Failing to follow through your boundaries will make your partner think that it is okay for you if he or she crosses your boundaries again. If your partner fails to respect the boundaries you have or do not take them seriously, it will make you feel that your needs, desires, and feelings are unimportant, meaningless and insignificant. This is not healthy for any relationship so make sure that the two of you discuss one another’s boundaries in order to make your relationship better.