Community Gathering: How To Handle Boundary Pushers

Community Gathering: How To Handle Boundary Pushers

Time: 12:00 - 13:00 (UK time / GMT)

Date: Wednesday 26th November 2025 (community gatherings are every two weeks on a Wednesday)

Location: Online via Zoom

Event Description

It took me years to recognise that there were people in my life who regularly stepped over the invisible lines I'd drawn for myself that made me feel safe, comfortable and in control. The friend who wanted to be in constant text contact, including late at night, and that got angry when I said I needed space and sleep. The person I knew through work who constantly tried to use me as a therapist, even though I wasn't comfortable playing that role for them. The neighbour who rang the bell daily for a chat, even when they knew I was working. I knew I felt uncomfortable, awkward, that these situations didn't feel 'right' somehow. But I didn't trust myself to know what was okay and not okay, much less how to actually do anything about it.

None of us want to be seen as difficult or unkind. But clarifying our boundaries is absolutely crucial for keeping us feeling safe and well. This week, I thought it might be interesting to explore - how to spot boundary-pushing behaviour, why some people push / don't respect the lines that we draw for ourselves, and how to handle it when it happens so that we can look after ourselves without seeming like the 'bad guy.'

Bring a cuppa, and let's figure this out together :-)

**We'll start promptly at 12.05. To avoid interruptions and make sure everyone gets value from the session, I'll admit members until 12.10 and then close the session.**

What happens in our community gatherings?

Our live sessions are designed to feel relaxed and nurturing from the moment you join. We begin with five minutes to settle in - grab a cuppa, find a cosy spot, take care of whatever you need to - because we know that feeling comfortable matters. Once we're all together, we'll spend a few minutes setting our intentions for the session, creating a calm, focused space where we can connect with purpose and openness. Hannah then introduces the week's topic (around 10-15 minutes), often inspired by real conversations, observations and learning from the community. Recent themes have included things like building trust, navigating friendship boundaries, and showing up authentically without getting hurt. Topics are usually emailed out a day or so in advance, so that you are able to decide if the session is one that you would like to take part in.

Connection is at the heart of each session. You'll have time to engage with others through thoughtful exercises or conversation starters linked to the day's theme - a chance to share your experiences, hear different perspectives, and start building those genuine connections we're all here for. We finish by coming back together for reflection, sharing any insights or 'aha' moments, and closing with final thoughts and community notices. The whole experience is designed to feel inclusive and gentle, whether you're someone who loves to share or prefers to listen and absorb. There's absolutely no pressure - just an invitation to show up as you are.

We're building brilliant friendships, together!

The Friendshift Circle is a warm, welcoming community for thoughtful, genuine people who value depth and authenticity in their relationships. If you prefer smaller gatherings, meaningful conversations, and slower-paced socialising, you're in the right place. Whether you're navigating changes in your friendship circle, starting fresh in a new area, or simply want to build more emotionally connected relationships that fit your life as it is now, we're here to support you every step of the way.

Founded by leading friendship coach Hannah Carmichael OBE, our community brings together like-minded souls (mostly aged 30+) from all walks of life who understand the importance of having space to reset whilst also craving genuine connection. Through regular online gatherings and our moderated community space, you'll find practical advice, heartfelt support, and the tools you need to create the friendships you're looking for - without pressure, without pretence, and entirely at your own pace.

Join us for a two-week free trial and discover a unique space where it's not just normal to talk about friendship - it's celebrated. You'll get access to live sessions, the comprehensive Friendship Accelerator toolkit, exclusive resources, and most importantly, a community of people who genuinely get it. Pay monthly (currently $12 / around £10), stay as long as you like, and cancel anytime.

Please note: This isn't about dating - it's about building the authentic, trust-based friendships that make life richer.

How To Join This Event

Start your two week free trial of The Friendshift Circle today, after that it's £10 a month. You can also join via MeetUp.