Healthy Boundaries

Having healthy boundaries is vital in protecting your physical and mental health. It safeguards your wellbeing. When you think of what that might look like it often resembles walls in a house that keep you safe from outside intruders. The walls create a barrier and give you the choice of deciding what comes inside.

When you are a child, you learn what having healthy boundaries looks like in a family unit. A child raised with healthy boundaries gains self-esteem, worthiness and learns what behaviors are appropriate. When this doesn’t occur in childhood it can be present in adult life in a way that resembles an emotional tornado.

Below you will find three styles of boundaries that often are seen within the family dynamic.

-Clear boundaries are the best to have within a family. Individuals with clear boundaries tend to be flexible but assertive with their communication style. Speaking up when they voice their point of view.

-Rigid boundaries in families are just that, rigid, due to the lack of communication. This style does not tend to be flexible when discussing things within the family. Individuals tend to feel unheard. Families often are disconnected with little interaction.

-Open boundaries are less defined and often confusing. Having open boundaries often allows individuals to be taken advantage of. Those with open boundaries often have trouble saying no, which allows them to agree even when they don’t want to do something.

The best advice one could give someone is to trust your gut, if it feels wrong it probably is. Health boundaries can be developed and be taught during any time in your life. It’s never too late for change. You are worth it!