How to Set Boundaries That Actually Hold

A boundary is simply information about what you will and will not do. It works best when it is stated calmly, once, and then upheld.

A simple structure

Name the situation, state your limit, offer an alternative where you genuinely can. "I can't host this year, but I'd love to come for the afternoon."

Expect a period of adjustment

People who benefited from your lack of boundaries may push back at first. Consistency, not argument, is what settles it.