Week 9 of 12
Boundaries, Emotional Responsibility & Healthy Conflict
What is mine to carry?
Participants clarify personal boundaries, own their emotional responses, and engage conflict constructively.
Learning objectives
- Define healthy boundaries as limits that protect wellbeing and relationships.
- Distinguish emotional responsibility from blame.
- Practice stating a boundary clearly and kindly.
- Apply a fair-fighting framework to conflict.
Teaching notes
- Boundaries are about our own actions, not controlling others.
- Emotional responsibility includes repairing harm we cause.
- Healthy conflict requires basic safety. Abuse is not 'conflict'; refer to appropriate resources.
Examples & scenarios
Late-night calls
A team lead says 'I don't answer work calls after 8 p.m.; I'll respond first thing in the morning.'
Guilt from family
Elena notices her mother's disappointment is her mother's feeling to hold, while Elena can still respond with kindness.
Ministry over-commitment
A volunteer coordinator says 'I can lead two Sundays a month, not four.'
Weekly action step
State one boundary this week and note your feelings before and after.
Optional Scripture reflection
Offered for those who find faith meaningful; feel free to skip.
Galatians 6:2–5
Bearing one another's burdens and carrying our own load — how do both fit?
Mark 1:35–38
Jesus withdraws to pray even when many seek him. What does that teach about limits?