When your boundaries are violated, it can be uncomfortable and stressful.
You may not have the skills to create strong boundaries that support your well-being.
Boundaries are limits you set for yourself that determine what you will and will not participate in or allow. They are more about what you do than getting another person to change.
Boundaries keep you physically and emotionally safe. They are the ultimate form of self-care because they help you prioritize what is best for your mental, emotional, and physical health. They allow you to advocate for yourself in relationships.
Boundaries keep relationships healthy, but when other people violate them, it’s painful and stressful.
When violations occur repeatedly, the relationship can become unhealthy and feel unsafe.
If you lack boundaries, you may:
believe your needs do not count.
frequently doubt yourself.
easily fall into the “people-pleaser” role.
feel like your relationships are more like obligations.
Or sometimes people violate boundaries to gain control, manipulate others, or get what they want from other people.
A good point! My ex did this to me a lot, and admitted it to our therapist. I also really like your #2 suggestion for getting a record for boundary violations, kind of like having your own relationship pensieve!
