What’s Your Relationship With Barriers?

What do boundaries mean for you?

When we think of boundaries, it's tempting to view them as walls that shut others out, but in reality, they act as frameworks that allow us to build stronger, healthier relationships - with others but also, and perhaps more importantly, with ourselves. I see boundaries giving us a sense of clarity and essentially freedom.

When boundaries are respected, trust deepens. We feel safer, more valued, and more able to express our true selves. This isn’t just beneficial for personal relationships; it holds true for professional environments as well, where boundaries can lead to clearer communication, increased collaboration, and a sense of mutual respect.

At work, this might mean setting clear expectations for how and when communication happens, or when deadlines are due, or how much time we dedicate at work, allowing for a healthier work-life balance. Boundaries aren’t about separation, but about creating the conditions for sustainable, meaningful connections.

I find it helpful to ask yourself few questions to determine your relationship with boundaries:

► When was the last time I said "yes" when I really wanted to say "no"? What motivated my response?
► How do I feel after setting a boundary—relieved, anxious, guilty? What does this say about my relationship with boundaries?
► Do I tend to prioritize others' needs over my own? If so, in what situations does this happen most often?
► How comfortable am I in expressing my boundaries to others?
► What signs do I notice in my body or mind when a boundary is being crossed? How do I typically respond?

When we honor our own limits, we invite others to do the same, and in doing so, we open the door to richer, more authentic relationships.