Opinion A little respect goes a long way in bringing back the trust in your relationship. Everyone has their own comfort levels, needs, and limits. It is important for you to understand and respect these boundaries. Crossing someone’s boundaries, even inadvertently, can make them uncomfortable and reduce trust.
Begin by noting that boundaries come in many flavours — emotional, physical, conversational. Some may prefer to share their personal experience at their own pace or dislike certain things, like hugs or standing very close to each other.
Paying attention to verbal and non-verbal cues is crucial, as they are often the tell that someone may or may not be comfortable.
If you are unsure, do not be afraid to ask. Something simple like, “Is this okay?” some variation of “Would you like us to talk about something else?” can show respect and thoughtfulness.
Healthy interactions depend on respect for everyone involved, including feeling safe and comfortable sharing spaces or proffered presence.
Respecting their boundaries demonstrates your patience and understanding. Noticing how much it means to us to be able to build connections at our own pace can lead to deeper, more meaningful interactions developed over time.
Tip: Do some mindful observing. People express their boundaries indirectly via their responses and body language—these cues will help you gauge whether the person feels at ease with you and what you should do about it.