Setting Boundaries by Hanaa Haleem

 Article #1- Setting Boundaries by Hanaa Haleem

Finally made it clear that someone’s action does not comply with your personal boundaries and believed it came across as mean? Well it really didn’t, as setting boundaries are extremely important in maintaining quality friends and peace. Some things to consider when setting them are the extent to which/what you are willing to help with, when you are available, what topics you are comfortable/uncomfortable with discussing, etc. 

Throughout middle school and freshman year, I always did as people asked, regardless of how it made me feel. There were moments where I could no longer take the demand of someone consistently asking for study help, but still helped them as I believed I was a bad friend for not assisting them with what they needed. Over time, I realized that this was extremely draining and did not do me any favor but feeling pressured into spending more time helping people that frequently pass my boundaries instead of putting time into doing valuable things for myself.

As I could no longer take it anymore, I began to keep my friend circle tight and make my boundaries clear to those who do not follow them, regardless of their opinion, because I knew that protecting my peace mattered more than keeping a friend who appears nice but will be draining long-term. Yes, I do feel more lonely sometimes as I have lost more friends over the years, but it has come to my realization that a small circle of quality, compatible friends is better than having many friends who just take advantage of you for their own good.