By: Adra Chandler

When I think about my teen dating experience, a few things come to mind, mainly my lack of boundaries. Boundaries are essential to set at the very beginning of a relationship. In church, we talk a lot about physical boundaries and often forget about other kinds of boundaries. However, we should also discuss emotional, conversational, personal, and time boundaries at the beginning and throughout the relationship.

Emotional boundaries are boundaries that have to do with us as emotional beings. It is crucial for both people in the relationship to take responsibility for their emotions and have boundaries about how the other person can support them. Keep your self-worth and emotional well-being separate from your boyfriend.

Conversational boundaries include what you will or won’t discuss with the person you are dating. For example, will you talk about everything, or will some things be off-limits?

Personal boundaries can be almost anything. For example, it can be a boundary about a pet peeve that bothers you. Or a rule you have for yourself that you need the person you are dating to respect.

Time boundaries are often forgotten about in relationships. But setting time aside for everyone important in your life is crucial, not just your boyfriend. Set time aside for yourself, friends, and family separate from your boyfriend.

Some of these boundaries may seem silly to talk about, but I assure you that being upfront about what will and won’t happen in a relationship will save heartbreak and save you from guys who do not value you. God loves and values us all more than we can comprehend! So, let’s date guys who strive to value us like God does and respect us like the creation of God that we are.

About the Author: Adra Chandler is the Media Coordinator at Free Will Baptist Foundation and the Social Media Coordinator at WNAC. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, husband, and 5 cats. She is passionate about mental health and sharing the hope that is only found in Christ.