We all love a sense of community—chatting with the neighbor, venting to a coworker, or getting extra-friendly service from our favorite barista. But getting too close? That’s where things get tricky. When relationships with people you have to see go bad, they turn from comforting to complicated—fast. Let’s talk about why setting boundaries with neighbors, coworkers, and service workers can save you from unnecessary drama.

🛑 Ever had a friendship turn messy in one of these situations? Read on!

Just because you get along with someone doesn’t mean you truly feel safe with them. The difference between comfort and connection can make or break a relationship—whether it’s love, friendship, or something in between. If you’re constantly performing instead of existing, is that really closeness? Or just coexisting?