This blog post first appeared on SixtyAndMe.com 

by Kimber Westmore

Advice about creating healthy boundaries fills entire sections of bookstores. I guess that’s because determining how to set and apply healthy boundaries in real life is challenging!

As a couple, my mom and dad established their own boundaries throughout 65 years of marriage. As kids, each of us knew that we brought joy to their lives. They relished family celebrations. But we also understood how much they loved spending time alone. Their ability to love us while simultaneously setting clear boundaries gave us security as kids and freedom later in life within our own families. Looking back, I appreciate the way my parents masterfully established boundaries which allowed us all to thrive.