FAST Basics
This letter in FAST reminds us to treat ourselves and others with fairness.
F = Be Fair
Sarah says, "I understand why you're upset, and my feelings matter too."
Be Fair
This type of boundary involves personal space and physical touch.
Physical Boundaries
You tell a friend, "Please don't hug me without asking first."
Physical Boundary
A friend cuts in front of you in line. You calmly say, "I was here first."
Which FAST skill are you using?
Be Fair
This FAST skill means not apologizing for having an opinion or making a reasonable request.
A = Don't Over Apologize
James asks for help from a coworker without saying, "Sorry for bothering you."
Don't Over Apologize
This type of boundary involves protecting your feelings.
Emotional Boundaries
You tell someone, "I'm not ready to talk about that right now."
Emotional Boundary
You disagree with a group but avoid saying anything because you're worried people won't like you.
Which FAST skill would help the most in this situation?
Stick to Your Values
This FAST skill encourages you not to sacrifice your values just to please others.
S = Stick to Your Values
Maria refuses to lie for a friend even though it might make the friend angry.
Stick to Your Values
This type of boundary involves respecting thoughts, beliefs, and ideas.
Intellectual Boundaries
You respectfully ask someone not to insult your beliefs during a discussion.
Intellectual Boundary
Someone asks why you can't attend an event. Instead of making up an excuse, you say you're tired and need time for yourself.
Which FAST skill are you using?
Be Truthful
This FAST skill means avoiding lies, exaggerations, and fake excuses.
T = Be Truthful
Tyler honestly tells his teacher he forgot his homework instead of making up a story.
Be Truthful
This type of boundary involves deciding how and with whom you express sexuality.
Sexual Boundaries
You decide not to lend your car to a friend.
Material Boundary
A friend constantly texts you late at night. You ask them to contact you before 9 p.m.
What type of boundary are you setting?
Time Boundary
FAST helps people maintain this important part of themselves during communication.
self-respect
Alex calmly disagrees with a group decision while respecting everyone involved. (Hint: 2 skills)
Be Fair and Stick to Your Values
These two boundary types involve possessions/money and how you spend your time.
Material Boundaries and Time Boundaries
You decline an invitation because you already planned time to study and rest.
Time Boundary
Your coworker asks you to lend money, but you are uncomfortable doing so. You politely decline without apologizing excessively.
Name both the boundary type and FAST skill.
Material Boundary + Don't Over Apologize