You've settled on your boundaries. You've psyched yourself up to start the discussion. Now you have to communicate properly. Even if you haven't done the first two things, communicating effectively can go a long way in establishing boundaries.
"Communicating clearly and with an open heart what we can give, want to receive, enjoy, and what makes us uncomfortable are some of the fundamental ways we can establish boundaries in any relationship," Dr. Concannon said. Making sure you're on the same page as the person you're having issues with — whether it's a friend, family member, partner, or coworker — is key to getting on track.
Boundaries can vary greatly — which is why it's important to figure out what you need first — but the person in question won't know about those boundaries until you tell them. It's imperative for a healthy relationship, both professional and personal, to keep those lines of communication open.
When it comes to relationships, specifically, "have an open conversation with yourself and your partner about what you are needing and wanting in the relationship," Dr. Blair explained. "Often people who struggle to set boundaries have a fragile sense of self and may feel they are unworthy of respect and of their needs and wants being met."