4 clear boundaries to maintain in every relationship

Lisa Kleypas said, “I no longer believed in the idea of soul mates, or love at first sight. But I was beginning to believe that a very few times in your life if you were lucky, you might meet someone who was exactly right for you. Not because he was perfect, or because you were, but because your combined flaws were arranged in a way that allowed two separate beings to hinge together.” It’s true for every relationship, isn’t it?

When a new relationship starts, couples tend to fall for a no holds barred approach to their companionship. However, most healthy relationships encapsulate two people who support each other in their individual journeys instead of getting tangled up in between. The key to a happy future exists in establishing certain boundaries right from the start.  

Having boundaries sets a limit to the demands and expectations of both partners and creates a space for clear communication. Not only does it help develop ease and comfort but also helps in building positive self-esteem and mutual respect for each other’s emotions.

It’s best to sit and have a chat about what each one wants from the other. From intimacy to professional goals, here are a few boundaries that you should consider discussing before taking the next step. If the boundaries are constantly crossed or interrupted, it’s easier to weed out people who are who don’t tick the compatibility box with you.

Clarify your communication mode

While some people like to text, others feel like talking on call for hours at end. It is important to understand what the other one likes and whether they fit into your communication style or pattern. Instead of going out of your way to adjust, it’s best to be clear about what you like from day one.

Discuss the need for personal space

Who doesn’t need a little time to do the activities they’re interested in or meet the people they want to? While spending time with each other is essential in a relationship, it is also important to understand the need for personal space. Have an open discussion and be clear about your needs.

Address your desire for commitment

One of the most significant things in a relationship is to know what page you are on with your partner. Discuss your thoughts about what level of commitment you expect from them and understand their point of view. It sets thing straight on whether they’re the one for you or not.

Seek permission for important decisions

While many people want to take independent decisions, it is important to realise that you need to think for both people in a relationship. This especially holds true when you’re taking important decisions or even feel the need for intimacy. Seeking permission only reiterates the fact that you value your partner.

Once these terms are sorts between you and your partner, it helps bridge the gap and also reflects their personality to help you decide whether it matches with yours. As Donald Miller once said: “When you stop expecting people to be perfect, you can like them for who they are.”