It is easy to feel offended or taken aback when someone sets a limit with you.
Maybe they don’t appreciate how often you are late to their coffee date?
Maybe they aren’t happy with what you said to their child during that play date?
Maybe they aren’t a fan of the questions you ask about their love life?
Whatever it is… friend, hear me when I tell you.
They usually want to continue a relationship with you, and this boundary is helping them do that.
Boundaries aren’t a means to push you out or away, instead it is an effort to connect, share love and continue a relationship that is built on honesty, communication and mutual respect. The only way we can give and take inside meaningful relationships is through the use of healthy boundaries.
So, what do you say someone expresses a boundary to YOU?
Here are a few responses to keep in your back pocket…
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“thank you for sharing that with me!”
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“I don’t understand, but I want to.”
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“Oh I get that! Okay I will work on it.”
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“I can see why this matters to you, but I may need some reminders moving forward.”
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“This is going to be really helpful for our relationship.”
Remember, boundaries aren’t punitive or personal. They aren’t an attack on your character, but instead a necessary component to move forward with understanding, consideration and honesty.
XO
