Boundaries improve relationship

The concept of "boundaries" in relationships is one that is commonly discussed in the field of family therapy. You may use different wording in referring to relationship boundaries, but they are all generally talking about the same thing: where we draw the line with people. Boundaries may be described as, how emotionally close you let people get to you." They are one measure of relationship health, and can be associated with stress.

Maintaining Balance

For one thing, when we don’t set boundaries on what we will say yes and no to, we tend to take on more responsibilities than we’re comfortable with, just to please others. This can add stress.  Setting healthy boundaries helps us to maintain the right balance in our schedules and in our lives.

Setting Boundaries Actually Brings Closeness

Healthy boundaries allow us to have closer relationships that respect the needs of all involved. Most of us have some people in our lives that require a different type of response, and indeed need to be kept at an arm’s length because they do not respect the boundaries we set, but the majority of people can be allowed to get close to us without stepping on our toes.