Reflections
Boundaries · September 15, 2026 · 3 min read
Boundaries are not walls
A wall keeps everyone out. A boundary lets the right things in.
When we have spent years putting everyone else first, the first boundaries we set can feel harsh. So we either don't set them, or we overcorrect and build walls.
A boundary is not a punishment. It's information about how to be in a relationship with me.
Walls come from fear. Boundaries come from self-respect. One closes you off. The other protects the energy you need to stay open, generous and present.
Try this: notice one place where you say yes and mean no. What would a kind, clear boundary sound like there?
Marianne Halvorsen
Coach, and author of the upcoming book Returning to Self: Living Life with Intention.