Child's hand holding little finger of adult's hand

What If Boundaries Are the Most Loving Thing You Can Do?

June 02, 20251 min read

In this episode, we explore a gentler, more grounded way to think about boundaries — not as control or punishment, but as love in action.

Emma unpacks the essential difference between rules and boundaries, and offers real-life, emotionally intelligent examples to help you create safety and structure without losing connection.

If you’ve ever felt like a “bad mum” for saying no… or struggled to hold a limit without guilt… this episode will meet you with clarity, compassion, and practical support.


🧭 What We Cover:

  • Why boundaries and rules aren’t the same — and why that distinction matters

  • How to offer calm, steady leadership even in high-stress parenting moments

  • What to do when your child’s behaviour is both intolerable and developmentally appropriate

  • The subtle art of protecting your own nervous system while showing up with love


🌿 7 Principles of Gentle Boundaries (referenced in the episode):

  1. Boundaries are self-honouring, not other-controlling

  2. Safety comes first — but doesn’t have to come harshly

  3. Anticipation is leadership — not control

  4. Redirection is respectful and real

  5. Presence does not require being physically close

  6. Boundaries can be quiet and steady

  7. Relational limits support mutual regulation


🎧 Listen Now:

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Understanding people has always been a passion of mine, and becoming a parent made that understanding even more real. My counselling training helped me explore the emotional challenges of parenting — not perfectly, but with more presence, compassion, and clarity. Now I run a social enterprise supporting families through group work, counselling, and digital learning.

Emma Reed

Understanding people has always been a passion of mine, and becoming a parent made that understanding even more real. My counselling training helped me explore the emotional challenges of parenting — not perfectly, but with more presence, compassion, and clarity. Now I run a social enterprise supporting families through group work, counselling, and digital learning.

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