What Are Workplace Boundaries?
Workplace boundaries are limits you establish between yourself and your place of work.
Do not expect your workplace to do this for you.
Benefits of Setting Workplace Boundaries
Avoiding burnout
Avoiding resentment
Increase of self-esteem
Respect from others
Leading by example
Barriers to Setting Workplace Boundaries
People-pleasing tendencies
Fear of confrontation or rejection
Guilt
Never learned how to set boundaries
Examples of Workplace Boundaries
Ending work on time
Not reading emails outside of your work hours
Not attending meetings outside of your work hours
Declining an invitation
Taking a dedicated lunch break
Taking time off when you need it
How to Set Workplace Boundaries
Identify Your Limits
This could be something you already know, such as signing off work at the same time every week to attend a therapy appointment. Conversely, limits can be something more nebulous based on what comes up for you every time you are faced with a particular situation. For example, if you find yourself experiencing a negative reaction every time a coworker asks for help after work hours, this could be an indication of a limit that needs to be set.
Unsure what your workplace limits are? Go through your day mindfully and pay attention to changes in your mood and physical body. If you find yourself in situations that repeatedly trigger uncomfortable feelings or sensations, this could mean you need to implement a boundary.
Articulate Your Limits
This does not need to be scary! Many times, people are fearful to ask for what they need because they assume the other person will react negatively. However, most people are quite respectful when it comes to acknowledging boundaries. If you don't know, don't assume! The only way to know is to give it a try.
Helpful Tips
Be direct, clear, firm and respectful
Use confident body language
Plan ahead
Commit to honor your boundary
Respect other people’s boundaries
There is no need to apologize for having limits
You are not responsible for another's reaction
You are allowed to change your mind
You are allowed to say “no”
You are entitled to not participate in things that don’t align with your values
Practice, practice, practice! If this is new to you, start with a safe person first.
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