Boundaries

Boundaries include internally-motivated moral constraints, external rules, social expectations, laws, and any other internal or external demarcation that defines us as individuals. Boundaries teach us “where I end and where you begin.” Boundaries protect us as individuals—they enable us to make our own commitments and choices, independent of others. With our boundaries, we can keep ourselves safe in our relationships and protect ourselves from other people who would harm or use us in any way. Boundaries are a vitally important part of keeping commitments, caring for oneself and truly loving others (true connection / inter-dependency).