A boundary can help you clarify what you are available for and what you need to protect. It does not give you control over another person’s feelings or decisions.
How to use this page
Read the three distinctions. Think of an ordinary situation involving time, energy, space, or information. You may keep the situation private.
Your limit
A limit describes your availability or a condition you need, such as time to rest before another task. It may be temporary or depend on the situation. You can care about someone and still have a limit. You do not need to prove that your exhaustion is severe enough.
Your request
A request asks another person for an action. They may agree, decline, or offer an alternative. Clear wording can help them understand you, but it cannot guarantee a respectful response. A request is different from threatening punishment to force agreement.
Your next choice
Consider an action within your control if the situation continues, such as ending a call or asking for help. Real choices can be constrained by money, work, caregiving, or safety. If stating a limit could lead to retaliation, seek private support and consider safer options before speaking.
Reflection prompts
Use these questions in conversation, on paper, or in the downloaded PDF. You may adapt or skip a prompt.
One situation where I want to clarify my availability or ask for a change
Facilitator notes and adaptation
Do not imply that people cause mistreatment by having weak boundaries. Validate constraints and safety needs. Assertive communication is an option, not a moral obligation.
Sources behind the concepts
These sources inform the concepts in this original resource. They do not validate or endorse this specific page.
Conceptual background on expressing needs clearly while respecting others. These pages use original wording and activities.
Assertive CommunicationDepartment of Health, Government of Western Australia · Accessed 2026-10-27
Conceptual background on clear requests, factual descriptions, and practice. Communication style is adapted for culture and access rather than prescribed eye contact.