Just like with any relationship, boundaries in friendship are massively important. It helps keep friends relationships healthy and intact.
One of the easy ways to build a strong friendship that stands the test of time is through boundary setting. Without this in place, we can feel disrespected, violated, or insulted.
So in other to avoid feeling uncomfortable with your friends, you should communicate what your boundaries are to them so they don’t end up crossing the line which may lead to resentment if not properly addressed.
Boundaries come in different shapes and forms.
Physical boundaries
Physical boundaries usually stem from touch or the physical presence or personal space.
When this boundary is not respected it might make you feel desecrated.
Try to inform your friends about your physical boundaries, how you want your space, food, things even time to be treated that’s the only way you can grow with them and not make them feel unwelcome with you.
Emotional boundaries
Emotional boundaries can be a tough one to set with friends because part of being your friend means being there for one another right? Yes.
However, in a situation when you are not in the right frame of mind to be there for someone else, it’s okay to let them know that.
Emotional boundaries are also about recognizing your feeling and validating them. Your ability to express your needs and emotions to your friends allows your relationship to stay authentic.
Time boundaries
Time boundaries can put a strain on your friendship if not conveyed well. A good example is when you plan hangouts and this particular friend constantly shows up late to all your plans or they keep cancelling late hours.
To crown it all, every time you address the matter they get angry which isn’t nice. Your time is very valuable and you must make that friend understand that you respect their time and you would appreciate it if they respect your time too.
That’s the only way you can maintain a healthy relationship with them.
Information Boundaries
Information Boundaries this is limiting how much you want certain friends to know about your life, partner, family or even work which is okay.
There is specific information you would like to keep to yourself and you get discomfort when your friends try to pry.
You should let them know that you would rather not talk about it at the moment. Also, it’s alright if your friends choose to keep some things to themselves, it doesn’t make them less of a friend.
They just need their privacy and you should understand that.
Lastly knowing the various types of boundaries is very important. It will help you navigate your feelings properly and how best to communicate those boundaries without pushing your pals away.
This will furthermore help your friends with how to best connect with you.
