[Ms. Meander]

I am much more of an introvert (except when I'm not!) and I'm new with this "effectively asserting my boundaries" thing. I've turned over a new leaf lately and am feeling much more confident in my ability to meet my own needs and make sure I am involved only with people who respect my boundaries, particularly my need for space when I'm taking it.

Admittedly, I have yet to be challenged in this very much since I've made some internal changes (although some), so I'm just bolstering myself and listening to other people's experiences. I'm not really a "Fuck off" kind of person. I like to communicate gently, but some people can't hear what I'm saying unless I hit them over the head with a 2x4. They get one big bonk over the head and a discussion of how this needs to be different in the future - then if it happens again, that relationship is likely going to end or transform to platonic friendship. I've recently had an opportunity to practice this effectively. Sadly. But it feels pretty great to assert myself and come out feeling good about myself rather than like I've compromised my own needs too much.