How do you set boundaries with relatives without causing offense?

Setting boundaries for relatives can be more challenging than setting boundaries for other people. I think the steps to take are: 1. Understand why you need to set a boundary: Are you uncomfortable with the person or the topics of discussion? Are you the kind of person who prefers your space and doesn't like to be disturbed? When you know your WHY, it will be easier to decide on the approach. 2. Speak to the person: One thing I have learnt from my experience in Customer Support is that most people do not know how to communicate their thoughts effectively. If you need space/want to create a boundary, it is best to tell the person immediately. Delaying will lead to difficulty to speak up when you are no longer comfortable with things.

Clear Boundaries are essential in life! We cannot navigate life without clear Boundaries! To identify issues and Best options do this: * Grab a pen and 2 A4 sheets of paper... First: Write heading 1: What is the issue or problem at hand? (In a sentence or two write it down; define the issue or problem). Second, Write heading 2: What are all the causes of this issue or problem? ( It may take 1 or more sentences to write out the causes of the issue or problem). Third, Write heading 3: What are all my options with regard to this issue or problem? The good, bad, crazy, excellent options; write them out! Fourth, Write Heading 4: What is the best option for me, family, other individuals moving forward?

You have to accept that you might cause offense! The nature of setting personal boundaries means you're more than likely going up against what another person wants from you. Speak respectfully from your heart, but focus on your desired outcome. You can only control what you communicate, not how other people feel.

We all think differently especially within a family and causing offence is almost unavoidable. Finding fault in any family is surprisingly easy because you all do things differently. The level of offence is down to how you politically handle the situation which is a minefield you will know very well, but remember that you can never please everyone at the same time. Careful thought by yourself is primarily for you to set boundaries for yourself without becoming an alien within your own family.

Clearly defined lines in a parking lot allow others to park alongside without incurring damage. However, if one has not learned the skill of operating a said vehicle, then perhaps that person may only be permitted in an empty parking lot.

Setting boundaries with relatives depends on the relative. Naturally, with a younger one make it age appropriate. i.e. With a five-year-old always be tender and say things like, Aunt Mary or Grandma does this like this rather than scold or finger shake. With a relative who pokes the bear and is caustic one time is enough. If it happens again call them out with or without a witness. Naturally, a witness present is more noteworthy. Boundary crossing is about them and not about you. We set our own boundary. Don't allow anyone to cross your boundary and that includes a spouse or a parent.

In any family boundaries are important, but sometimes those boundaries will be crossed and some by accident. Each generation has different ways of doing things and will always give advice or turn up expecting a warm welcome even if it is inconvenient to you. Explaining those problems in a calm way can be the key to solving certain boundaries and problems it causes

Sometimes offering the simplest solution can lead to closer family ties, except where certain family members think they know better. Slowly they will except your offer to change certain things they do, but don't expect miracles to happen overnight. Family is important, but so is becoming a better version of yourself. Some will try to argue that your boundaries are wrong and struggle to understand your feelings because even twins see, feel and act slightly differently. Careful controlled words always help, but mostly staying calm during any conversation shows you have your own ideas and boundaries.

Simple boundaries and calm explanation of them will create respect within any family. You will have to manage your own anger at those that cross your boundaries, but slowly some will understand and pass their thoughts on those that cross them onto others. Just as in business simple goals are easy to achieve through calm talking and friendly nature.

One thing to take into account is that relatives in some families do not possess a mindset of congeniality or seek to resolve issues. Indeed, some wallow in toxicity and look with disdain upon those who seek peaceful reconciliation. In such instances, it is wise for empathetic people to establish firm boundaries and in firm tones, when relevant, convey when such boundaries have been crossed. Never sacrifice your mental and spiritual health at the diabolical altar of those who seek to create havoc, be they kin or not.