BOUNDARIES - Things You Need to Know
Boundary setting comes up often in Counselling sessions. Boundaries are there to protect your time, energy and peace - but the real challenge is making them stick. Especially if you aren’t prepared.
Signs You Might Need Stronger Boundaries
You often say yes when you really want to say no.
You feel drained after certain conversations.
You feel guilty when you try to set limits.
You keep putting others’ needs before your own.
5 Types of Common Boundaries
Not all boundaries are the same… here are 5 you might need:
Physical – personal space, touch
Emotional – how others speak to you or drain your energy
Time – protecting your schedule & priorities
Material – possessions, money, lending
Digital – phone, social media, availability
Boundary vs Direct Request
A boundary is an action you take to protect your wellbeing.
Example: “I won’t answer work calls after 7pm.”
A direct request is something you ask of someone else.
Example: “Please don’t call me after 7pm.”
The power of a boundary is that it’s fully in your control!
5 Steps to Making Boundaries Stick
Understand your why
Define your action
Anticipate responses from others
Anticipate your own reaction
Create a self-soothing plan
These steps sound simple, but putting them into practice can be the hardest part.
Need Support?
If setting boundaries and making them stick is something you need support with, Chat it Out Counselling and Wellness can help. When you are ready, please reach out and Book A Chat.
