7 Ways When And How To Implement Boundaries With Other People

Everyone knows at least one person they simply don’t mesh well with, whether it’s a family member, coworker, or an ex. These are the people that don’t know how to respect your personal space, your privacy, or your life choices. What no one seems to realize often enough is that you deserve to be respected, and you are entitled to it. This means other people, no matter how difficult, need to back off when you need them to back off. Plain and simple.

There may be some instances when you would let other people walk all over you, simply because you don’t want to cause a fuss. Remember, you’re a person who has rights. And no matter how high up in the social ladder other people are, they shouldn’t tread all over you. It’s true that some people may not realize that they’re stomping on your dignity, but that’s exactly why you need to learn to set boundaries with them.

# Decide what your boundaries are

They’re different for everyone. Many people just want to be treated nicely, some need more alone time, others need coworkers that don’t pry into their personal lives, and so on. Sit down and honestly write what it is that’s bothering you, and what it is you want to change about the way people treat you.

# Calm yourself

Oftentimes, due to adrenaline or simply fear of hurting someone’s feelings, people tend to get a little jumpy. There’s also the possibility that you’re angry at the person or situation. Whatever the case, it’s important to calm yourself down in order to be taken seriously. Too much fear can make you come off as shy and nice. Too much anger can make you come off as a hilarious mess.

# Be honest and clear

The only way to get what you want is to communicate it clearly and honestly, so it’s not taken lightly. More so, it ensures the person you’re dealing with knows exactly where they stand and what they need to do to get on better terms with you. If they don’t want to do it, that’s fine, but at least you tried and were completely honest.

# Say no

Seriously, if your phone is ringing non-stop and you can’t catch a break, say no. If you don’t want to go out, say no. If you don’t feel like dealing with someone’s never-ending drama, say no. If an ex is not leaving you alone, threatening to ruin your current relationship, say no.

So many situations, all handled with a simple no. If people know that you can assert your right to not be put through a situation you don’t want to be in, they’ll eventually learn that they can’t just expect you to go along with their desires.

# Don’t feel guilty

At some point after implementing the boundaries, it’s normal to feel guilty. Pushing someone farther back a bit can make you question whether you’re doing the right thing or just being mean. Always remember that boundaries are perfectly healthy. What’s not healthy is feeling like someone is dictating your every move. Don’t feel guilty, and instead, feel relieved that you’re taking steps towards feeling happier. Eventually, they’ll get it too… or become history.

# Negotiate

With yourself. Do you really need that super fun but backstabbing friend? Do you really need that emotionally abusive partner? Do you really need to jump through hoops to please a boss who doesn’t even notice your efforts?

What is it that you need to do for yourself to make your life better, and what do you think you need to do in order to have a good life? Reevaluate your priorities and be firm with your decision.

# Treat others like you’d like to be treated

As cliché as it sounds, lead by example. If you want to be left alone, leave people alone. If you want respect, treat others with respect. Why? Because people learn how to treat you based on how you treat them.