Setting Healthy Boundaries: A Practical Overview
Many people struggle with setting and maintaining boundaries—especially those who prioritize others’ needs over their own, feel guilty saying no, or fear conflict. Boundaries aren’t about pushing people away; they’re about protecting your time, energy, and well-being so you can have healthier, more respectful relationships.
The worksheet above is to help you define and communicate your boundaries clearly and confidently. Here is a quick overview of what boundaries are and how to start setting them.
What Are Boundaries?
Boundaries are limits you set to protect your emotional, physical, and mental space. They clarify what’s okay and what’s not okay in how others treat you—and how you treat yourself.
Types of Boundaries (with examples):
- Emotional: “I’m not comfortable talking about that right now.”
- Time/energy: “I need to leave by 8:00 PM so I can get enough sleep.”
- Physical: “I don’t like being hugged without asking first.”
- Opinion: “I hear where you’re coming from, I just have a different opinion.”
- Beliefs: “I respect you, and I have my own beliefs, which are different.”
- Digital: “Please don’t post pictures of me without asking.”
Boundaries in Relationships
Boundaries aren’t about controlling others or pleasing them—they’re about clarity. Healthy relationships are built on mutual respect and autonomy. When we focus too much on how others feel, think, or behave, we lose sight of what we actually can control: our own actions and choices.
Setting a boundary means shifting from other-focused (“What do I need to do to make them happy?”) to self-focused (“What do I need to feel safe, respected, and well?”). It’s not about pushing people away—it’s about showing up with honesty and self-respect.
Why Boundaries Matter
Boundaries aren’t selfish—they’re necessary. Without them, we risk burnout, resentment, or being taken advantage of. With them, we build mutual respect, reduce stress, and strengthen relationships.
Click to download or print the Boundaries Worksheet.