Boundaries are a topic that comes up in everyday conversations, workshops, and conferences. They’re not only about saying “no” to others, but first and foremost about saying “yes” to yourself. They help us feel safe, care for our emotions, body, and mental space, and build healthy relationships based on respect and mutual understanding.
As part of our educational activities, we collected nearly 100 reflections from workshop and conference participants in response to the question: “What do boundaries mean to you?” The analysis of these statements revealed seven main categories that show the diversity of how boundaries are understood and their role in personal and social life.
1. Boundaries as safety and protection
Boundaries are our invisible shield — a refuge, a space where we feel calm and in control of ourselves.
Keywords: safety, protection, comfort, space, refuge, peace, territory.
Examples:
- “Protecting myself, psychological and emotional safety.”
- “Boundaries are my refuge.”
- “My safety zone.”
2. Physical and spatial boundaries
Physical boundaries mean distance, respect for one’s body and personal space. They are the decision of how close others can come and where our comfort zone begins.
Keywords: distance, touch, body, personal space, physicality.
Examples:
- “Physical distance is as important as emotional distance.”
- “Boundaries – where I end and the world begins.”
3. Psychological and emotional boundaries
Psychological boundaries are inner lines that define our emotions, values, and sense of identity. They help us protect our mental health and live a consistent, authentic life.
Keywords: emotions, identity, values, inner beliefs, nervous system.
Examples:
- “Boundaries are the point where my values and emotions no longer allow me to stay in a situation.”
- “Boundaries help me take care of my mental health.”
4. Boundaries as assertiveness and the right to choose
Boundaries are the ability to say “no,” express one’s opinion, and make decisions about oneself. They form the foundation of self-worth and autonomy.
Keywords: refusal, assertiveness, saying “no,” choice, decision-making, freedom.
Examples:
- “The ability to say no, to say stop.”
- “Boundaries are the foundation of well-being — when I say NO to someone, I’m saying YES to myself.”
5. Boundaries in relationships with others
Boundaries help build healthy relationships — they regulate contact, responsibility, and respect in interactions with others.
Keywords: relationships, cooperation, responsibility, respect, communication.
Examples:
- “Boundaries help build healthy relationships based on respect.”
- “Thanks to boundaries, I know where my responsibility ends and someone else’s begins.”
6. Boundaries as a process of growth and self-discovery
Boundaries aren’t rigid lines but a dynamic process of learning and self-understanding. Over time, they become flexible where we want them to be and firm where they need to be.
Keywords: process, learning, flexibility, growth, ladder, connection.
Examples:
- “Boundaries vary — what matters is that they’re flexible where they should be.”
- “They’re like a ladder for me — toward myself and my dreams.”
7. Boundaries as identity and self-definition
Boundaries express the “I” — they define who we are and where we end. They’re a tool for protecting our individuality.
Keywords: self, identity, autonomy, individuality.
Examples:
- “It’s my right, my personal space, my identity.”
- “Being with myself.”
- “For me, boundaries mean choosing myself.”
Summary
Boundaries are not just barriers — they are spaces of safety, respect, and self-understanding. By setting them consciously, we protect ourselves, learn assertiveness, and build healthy relationships with others. Understanding boundaries helps us develop our identity and maintain mental, emotional, and physical balance.