Creating Healthy Boundaries
January 30, 2023
Creating boundaries can help protect our mental health. When you set boundaries, you are teaching other people how to treat and respect you. This can be done with a variety of relationships. For example, it can be done with your partner, a relative, a friend or even a coworker. To understand what creating boundaries look like, please read the following:
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Don’t be afraid to say “no” – When it comes to situations or things that are against your values, beliefs or makes you uncomfortable, you have the absolute right to say no, without any further explanation.
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Make sure to address and recognize manipulation – A common term that comes to mind when it comes to this point is, “gaslighting.” Gaslighting is when someone is manipulating another to make them question their own reality. They make you think your feelings are not valid or that a situation did not happen as you thought it had.
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Never allow someone to disrespect you – The good old saying to “treat others the way you would want to be treated,” can go very far. Stand up for yourself when you feel yourself being disrespected.
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Make your privacy a priority – Whether you are in a relationship, living at home, or dorming with your best friend in the world, you have a right to privacy at any time and at any place. Sometimes we just need some time to be alone, and that is alright.
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Let your voice be loud – Don’t be afraid to voice what you like and don’t like when it comes to your relationships. If you don’t like the way your partner is treating you, make sure you are vocal about it to them.
Creating boundaries is much easier than implementing them. For both parties, it can be tough, but stick with it and know it is what is best for your mental health.