Types of boundaries
Boundaries about whether/how you can be touched (hand shakes vs. hugs); Boundaries about how close people may be to your body
Physical boundaries
False! All relationships depend on clear communication about boundaries.
True or false: a good friendship should be PERFECT
False! All relationships, including friendships, need constant work
True or false: your coworkers can never be your friends
False! It is sometimes appropriate to be friends with coworkers. These friendships may be different than your other friendships, and will have different boundaries.
Boundaries about what kinds of feelings people can share with you, and how they may expect you to respond (ex. you shouldn't be expected to be a "shoulder to cry on" for your coworkers in the same way that you would support family or friends)
Emotional boundaries
Is it rude to tell someone you don't want to hug, shake hands, etc.?
No! You can politely communicate about physical boundaries.
What is a "clique" of friends? Is it a good thing?
A clique is a small group of close friends, and may feel exclusive to other people. It can feel good to be IN the clique, but beware that it might make some people feel jealous or excluded.
What's one PRO of being friends with your coworkers? What's one CON?
PROs: being happier at work, trusting your teammates, knowing that you share certain values
CONs: maintaining boundaries might be more complicated, some risk of "falling out," overcommunication
True or false: boundaries keep you from having close relationships
False! Boundaries ensure you can have healthy relationships
Who should you talk to when someone crosses your boundaries?
It depends! If the person is considerate of your feelings, you should probably try to talk to that person.
If that person is hostile to you, you might need to get help from someone else (boss, parent, job coach, or a mediator).
What is "mutual respect?"
When two or more people respect each other
Boundaries about how people should treat your stuff (ex. borrowing your pickup truck to help move)
Material boundaries
Do you have to explain WHY you have certain boundaries?
No! You can explain if you want, but only if you feel comfortable doing so
False! The vast majority of people need other people in their life, even if they are introverts (people who enjoy or prefer alone time).
What department do you report to when you have a serious problem with a coworker?
Human Resources (HR)
Boundaries about what may offend you and your personal beliefs (ex. political beliefs, religious beliefs)
Mental boundaries
Describe co-dependency. And why is it unhealthy?
When two people are over-reliant upon each other, always going places together, and aren't allowed to explore their interests independently.
Describe a "toxic" relationship