How to Set Boundaries for Visitors

Having overnight guests is fun, but it can be a bit of a pain if you don't set boundaries for your visitors. A visit goes more smoothly when your guests know what to expect and when you set aside time for yourself to recharge your energy. Here are guidelines.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Confirm arrival and departure dates and times. Before your overnight visitors arrive, find out when they'll be arriving and staying for how long. This way, you know how much time you need to devote to entertaining them and can plan your schedule accordingly.
2. Show your visitors around the house. Point out where they're welcome to leave their luggage and which bathroom they'll use. This tour is an excellent time to set boundaries for the visit by skipping any private rooms. They'll get the hint when you don't show them your bedroom to stay out of that space.
3. Announce a daily schedule. Let them know at breakfast what you have in mind for the day. If you don't intend to spend the day together, tell them what time dinner will be. You can schedule some time for yourself by letting your visitors know you have a prior engagement at a certain time.
4. Be honest. When your overnight visitors suggest an activity that you're not interested in, let them know it. You can set boundaries with visitors by honestly responding to their suggestions. Let them know they're welcome to go without you but that you have something else you'd rather do at that time.

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