Boundaries are an essential element of healthy relationships because they help to keep a balance between you and your partner. They also help reduce conflict because they set an example of what you both expect from each other. Having boundaries can bring you closer to your partner because they keep open communication.

The thing to understand about setting clear boundaries with family — or anyone else in your life, for that matter — is that your boundaries are just that…yours. Personal boundaries are the limits you set to establish what’s acceptable and within your comfort zone.

It is essential to have personal boundaries to have healthy relationships. Personal Boundaries are important because you set basic guidelines for how you want to be treated. The problem is that boundary violators don’t know what boundaries are. It is your job to teach them about your boundaries for your own mental health and wellness.

Your boundaries could be regarding anything, including your desire for:

• Time to yourself

• Personal information to remain private

• Respect about the feelings and emotions you experience

• Freedom to change your mind

• Respect regarding your principles and beliefs

• Your physical and emotional needs being met

• Freedom from negative, controlling energy

• The ability to say no

• Freedom from taking blame

• The ability to share your feelings

• Your own identity

• The ability to ask for help

• The ability to stand up for yourself

• Your time managed as you see fit

Understand boundaries are healthy for your relationship.

Boundaries are an essential element of healthy relationships because they help to keep a balance between you and your partner. They also help reduce conflict, because they set an example of what you both expect from each other. Having boundaries can bring you closer to your partner because they keep open communication.

Be honest about what you need:

Communication is the key to a healthy relationship. Conversing openly is an important part of every healthy relationship. When discussing boundaries with your partner, being honest about what you are comfortable with or not comfortable with will help in knowing what you expect from them. You could even write down your expectations so it will be easy while sharing them with your partner.

Indicate When You Need Space

This tip is particularly relevant at the moment. If you’re spending a lot of time together mostly, be sure to interact with each other when you need time alone. It’s just as important to set aside time for yourself as it is to have quality time with the person you admire.

Listen to What Your Partner Needs

Since you expect your partner to notice your boundaries, it’s also important to thoroughly listen to their needs as well. Relationships are a two-way road, so you will need to listen to the boundaries they want to set and discuss those as well. Remember, that in a relationship, you should be able to say anything, but the way you say it matters a lot. So, be a good listener when your partner is expressing.

Communicate With Respect

Healthy relationships demand respect from both sides. The best way to communicate your boundaries is with understanding, compassion, and respect for each other’s expectations. Having respect each time you communicate will eventually make your relationship healthier and stronger. 

How to Set Healthy Boundaries

• Step 1. Be as clear and as straightforward as possible. Do not raise your voice.

• Step 2. State your need or request directly in terms of what you’d like, rather than what you don’t want or like.

• Step 3. Accept any discomfort that arises as a result, whether it’s guilt, shame, or remorse.