Have you ever felt uncomfortable in a conversation or situation, and not known how to set a boundary in a firm, yet respectful manner?
Setting boundaries is important for your mental health. It’ll keep you and those around you safe, and prevent you from saying or doing things you may regret. Here are some ways to go about it:
- “Please respect my decision. I’m not willing to discuss it further.”
By showing that you’re not going to back down, and that you expect the other person to stop arguing with you about it, you can simply leave the conversation if they don’t comply. - “I’m not going to let you talk to me like that. If you continue to do so, I’ll walk away.”
This shows self-respect, and that you’ll engage only when the other party is being respectful too. - “I’m not comfortable with your joking around about this. Please stop.”
It’s perfectly reasonable to ask someone not to make jokes about things such as death, rape, disease, poverty, depression or abuse, and expect them to respect your standpoint. - “I’m not in the right headspace for this right now. Can we come back to it later?”
If you can’t continue a conversation for some reason, ask whether you could return to it when you feel more comfortable. - “I’m saying no / Please don’t touch me right now.”
No is a sufficient response. You need not say anything more.
Bottom line
Being consistent in how you show respect to yourself and others will go a long way towards avoiding unhealthy connections and expectations, and protecting your mental wellbeing.
