Hey, girl! It’s important to have good friendships, but sometimes things can happen that make you feel uncomfortable. That’s where boundaries come in – they’re like rules that you set for yourself and your friends to make sure everyone feels safe and respected. Here are some tips to help you set and keep healthy boundaries:
- Know what boundaries are
Boundaries are like lines you draw to show what you’re okay with and what you’re not. They can be about physical things, like how close someone gets to you, or emotional things, like how someone talks to you. It’s important to know what your boundaries are so you can communicate them to your friends.
- Figure out what you need
Think about what makes you feel good and what doesn’t. Maybe you like it when your friend compliments your outfit, but you don’t like it when they tease you about something. Knowing what you need and want can help you set boundaries that make you feel comfortable.
- Be clear and firm when you talk to your friends
It’s important to tell your friends what your boundaries are, but it can be hard to do. Use “I” statements to explain how you feel, like “I don’t like it when you touch my hair without asking.” Try to be firm but not mean – you’re just letting them know what you’re okay with.
- Respect your friends’ boundaries too
Your friends might have different boundaries than you do, and that’s okay. It’s important to listen to what they say and respect their limits. If they don’t like something, don’t do it – that shows you care about them.
- Stick to your boundaries
Once you’ve set your boundaries, it’s important to stick to them. If someone does something that makes you uncomfortable, speak up and remind them of your boundary. Being consistent can help your friends know what to expect from you and make everyone feel safe.
- Ask for help if you need it
If you’re having trouble setting boundaries, or if someone keeps crossing your boundaries even after you’ve talked to them, it’s okay to ask for help. Talk to a trusted adult, like a parent or teacher, and they can help you figure out what to do.
Remember, you deserve to have friends who respect you and make you feel good. Setting boundaries can help make that happen!
