A strong friendship isn’t just about shared interests or laughter.
The real key to a relationship that stands the test of time lies in mutual respect, trust, and the ability to set and boundaries.
The real foundation of lasting friendship
Boundaries are essential in any healthy relationship. They define how you want to be treated and what you need from the other person.
A boundary doesn’t control someone else’s behavior, it clarifies how you’ll respond if it’s crossed.
Also read: Half a million children die every year – here’s how it can be prevented
The difference between a request and a boundary
Saying “Please don’t call after 9 p.m.” is a request. Saying “If you call after 9 p.m., I won’t answer until the next day” is a boundary.
It expresses your action, not what the other person must do.
Respecting other people’s boundaries
When a friend tells you how they want to be treated, listen. Boundaries are a way to show respect and understanding for each other’s needs and feelings.
A real-life example of healthy boundaries
Hannah Owens, a licensed social worker with clinical experience in community mental health, shares how a longtime friend spoke up after discovering that something she’d said in confidence had been repeated.
Also read: Dentists share the habits that frustrate them most
She clearly expressed that she didn’t want her words shared without permission. This honesty strengthened their 15-year friendship and rebuilt trust.
When boundaries are not respected
Another story from Hannah Owens describes a friend who reacted angrily when she had to cancel plans due to health issues.
Instead of showing understanding, she lashed out with insults and hostility.
Her refusal to respect boundaries, and her needs, ultimately ended the friendship.
Also read: Top foods rich in vitamin B12 and how to get enough
Recognizing signs of disrespect
If someone consistently ignores your boundaries, even after you’ve clearly expressed them, it’s a sign the relationship isn’t balanced. Respect must go both ways.
How to learn your friends’ boundaries
Start by asking simple questions like “What do you need from me right now?” or “How can I support you?”.
Open communication prevents misunderstandings and builds trust.
Practicing clear communication
When a friend shares their needs, make sure you’ve understood correctly.
Also read: New test can predict cancer a decade before the diagnosis
You might say, “I just want to make sure I understand you. Do you mean…?” It shows care and attentiveness.
Expressing your own boundaries
Use “I statements” to express your needs and feelings: “When you do X, it makes me feel Y,” or “Next time, I’d prefer if you did X.”
It keeps the conversation open and constructive.
Communication as the key to balance
According to psychologist Amy Marschall, the most important part of maintaining boundaries is communicating them clearly.
Also read: Avoid eating licorice if you’re taking these medications
You can choose to explain the reason behind them, or keep it private. The key is clarity and consistency.
Respect as the core of long-term relationships
Friendships last when both people feel respected and safe.
Setting and honoring boundaries isn’t about distance, it’s about trust. And that is the real secret behind a friendship that endures.
This article is based on information from Verywell Mind.