Setting Boundaries Isn’t About Controlling Others

You can only control yourself

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Boundaries — we hear a lot about them, but what are they, really? In simple terms, boundaries are the limits we set to protect our own well-being. They help us define what we’re okay with and what we’re not, and guide how we interact with others. Boundaries are the invisible lines we draw around ourselves to keep our physical, mental, and emotional spaces safe. At their core, boundaries are about respect — they are guidelines we set for how much we’re willing to give and take in any given situation.

Types of boundaries

There are three main areas in which we set boundaries: physical, mental, and emotional. Physical boundaries are about your personal space and how you feel about being touched. Mental boundaries are related to your thoughts, opinions, and beliefs, and how much you’re willing to share or let others influence you. Emotional boundaries protect your feelings and your personal experiences, ensuring you don’t take on too much from others.

It’s important to note that healthy boundaries aren’t meant to keep people at a distance — rather, they make sure we can connect with others without losing ourselves. Healthy relationships are built on the foundation of respecting each other’s boundaries. Without them, things can…