Short YouTube advice clip by communication coach Raele Altano offering scripted, polite but direct phrases to set personal boundaries when non-harmful touching feels uncomfortable. Speaker recommends nipping the issue early, using clear language that affirms the relationship when useful, and responding firmly if the other person presses for justification. The tone is practical, supportive, and confidence-building.
Chapters
Here's what to say when someone keeps touching you in a way that's not harmful but is making you uncomfortable. I haven't done one of these in a while and have gotten a bunch of requests for this topic specifically, so let's dive in. My recommendation for this one is to be as direct as possible and nip the issue in the bud sooner rather than later. You can say something like, please don't be offended, but I just really don't like being touched, or try reiterating the positive about that person or the relationship first before setting your boundary. For example, you can say, hey, I really enjoy working together but would appreciate a little bit more personal space. It's just what makes me the most comfortable. And if someone tries to question this or make you justify this, you can say, this is a personal boundary of mine and I definitely don't expect you to understand it, but I would really appreciate if you would respect it. Navigating this one can feel a little tough and awkward, but I hope these polite yet direct responses help you feel a little bit more armed and confident in what you have to say. I'm well with Rael, your communication coach, and if you end up using one of these, feel free to let me know how it goes.
