How to Set Healthy Boundaries in Friendships

Friendships are an important part of life, but even the best friendships can have challenges. Setting healthy boundaries can help you maintain strong and balanced relationships.

A boundary is a limit that protects your personal space, feelings, or time.

For example, if you need time alone after work, you could say, "I can’t meet today, but let’s catch up on the weekend." Communicating clearly about your needs helps your friend understand and respect them.

Healthy boundaries don’t mean avoiding your friend or shutting them out. Instead, they mean making sure your needs and your friend’s needs are both respected. For example, if a friend often borrows money but forgets to pay it back, you might say, "I’m happy to help, but I need to know you’ll repay me next time."

It’s also important to respect your friend’s boundaries. If they tell you they need more time for themselves, try to understand their perspective. Healthy friendships are based on mutual respect and communication.

Conflicts can sometimes arise when boundaries aren’t clear. If this happens, prioritize open communication. Talk calmly about what’s bothering you and listen to their side. For example, "I felt upset when you canceled our plans last minute because I was really looking forward to it."

Finally, remember that it’s okay to prioritize your own well-being. A true friend will respect your needs and want the best for you. Setting boundaries might feel uncomfortable at first, but it can make your friendships stronger in the long run.

Exercise 3: Discussion

Have a discussion based on the following questions.

1. What do you think about the advice in the article?

2. Have you ever had to set a boundary with a friend? How did it go?

3. Do you find it difficult to communicate your needs to others? Why or why not?

4. Can you think of a time when someone set a boundary with you? How did you feel?

5. What’s one thing you could do to make your friendships healthier?

   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

Exercise 4: Further Discussion

Have a discussion based on the following questions.

1. Do you think boundaries are important in all relationships? Why or why not?

2. How do you usually handle conflicts in friendships?

3. Are there any boundaries you wish you had set earlier in a friendship?

4. How can mutual respect improve a friendship?

5. “Respect yourself enough to set boundaries. Your time and energy are precious.” — Unknown. What does this quote mean to you?