I always teach peer support specialists to take care of things on the front end and state their boundaries clearly in the first session with their clients, which should be an orientation. Then, you can refer back to them when clients attempt to push them. Keep your boundaries firm.

I have 5 kids. If I had different rules for each child during developmental stages, including now in adult years, this would be hectic to manage. Rules are my boundaries. If I wouldn't allow my child to cross what are my rules, why would I allow others? Work space's have rules called protocols, procedures, guidelines frameworks etc. Understand what they are and what your scope is. Do they align? Perhaps that's the issue? Are you being asked to converge under the narrative that someone else has written for you? Who's boundaries are they? And Who's asking you to be flexible with your rules? This is what keeps us safe psychologically and in best practice for positive outcomes. 👣💌

Setting boundaries with a client who pushes limits requires finesse, clarity, and leadership. Start by crafting a framework of clear expectations: define your availability, response times, and the scope of support. This isn’t just about rules; it’s about creating a space where growth can flourish. When a client tests these boundaries, approach the situation as an opportunity to reinforce mutual respect. Explain that these boundaries allow you to bring your full, focused energy to each session—essential for transformative coaching. To lead effectively, as John Maxwell’s Law of Clarity highlights, clarity inspires alignment and understanding. Pair this with Maxwell’s Law of Respect, demonstrating consistency in your own actions. MjM

To piggy back on one of MY mentors, we must be consistent in a community of inconsistency. People behave for a desired outcome. Consistently holding the line without compromise will eventually communicate that the desired outcome of the inappropriate behavior cannot and will not occur.

The answer to this question depends on the situation. For me, I provide ABA therapy to early learners and support medically complex kids with autism. When my boundaries feel pushed, I take a breath - it is not functional to put my emotions back on them. I realize it is their boundaries they are pushing, not mine, which leads to their behavior. Take a breath, give them a minute, and recommunicate in a better way. We all just want to be heard and understood. And sometimes, we all just need a minute.