5 Holiday Boundary Mistakes People Make when dealing with Toxic People (+ How to Fix Them)

1. Saying “yes” out of guilt instead of alignment Guilt masquerades as responsibility, but it leads to resentment and emotional exhaustion. 

The fix: make decisions prayerfully, not reactively.

2. Thinking you have to explain your boundaries Over-explaining reopens the door for manipulation.

The fix: A simple, calm statement is enough.

3. Believing you “owe” people time, conversation, or presence You owe nothing that costs you your peace.

The fix: Love is not measured by access.

4. Walking into environments without a plan Triggers hit harder when you’re unprepared.

The fix: Create a boundary plan: exit strategy, support person, time limits.

5. Ignoring the Holy Spirit’s warning signs If you lose your peace, that’s your cue.

The fix: Peace is your spiritual barometer.

Closing: You don’t need a perfect holiday—you need a peaceful one. And God will guide you into it.