Table of Contents
Author's Note xi
Introduction: How I Became the "Boundary Lady" 3
Part 1 Boundary Beginnings 31
1 A Crash Course on Boundaries 33
2 How to Use This Book 65
Part 2 Your Boundary Practice 77
3 The Real Work/Life Balance: Setting Boundaries in the Workplace 79
4 When the Drama Is Your Mama: Setting Boundaries with Parents and In-Laws, Grandparents, and Other Family Members 125
5 Relationships We (Mostly) Chooses: Setting Boundaries with Friends and Neighbors 180
6 Love, Marriage, Sex, and Dishes: Setting Boundaries in Romantic Relationships 222
7 When You Can't Just Walk Away: Setting Boundaries with Co-Parents 284
8 Clearing the Table: Setting Boundaries Around Food, Alcohol, and Table Talk 306
9 Handle with Care: Setting Boundaries Around Sensitive Subjects 348
10 Gifts to Future You: Setting and Holding Boundaries with Yourself 392
Part 3 Boundary Benefits 427
11 Gifts to the World: How to Hold Your Boundaries, and Everyone Else's 429
12 The Magic of Boundaries 460
Acknowledgments 469
Notes 473