How to set clear work boundaries — and stick to them

When we communicate honestly and clearly, we’re leaving no uncertainty behind our intention and our meaning.

When starting a conversation in which we’d like to assert a boundary, we can sometimes let apologies creep in. But being apologetic makes us sound primed for a “no” or for some reprisal before anyone has had any input.

• We start work based on a job description, a contract and set of mutual expectations. In return for doing this and that, we can expect to be compensated in this way and that way.
• As time progresses, we’ll probably be asked to do other tasks and projects and we might ask for workplace adjustments.
• When expectations aren’t clearly defined, understood or agreed upon, it causes heaps of stress for all concerned.

The decision we make, work related, involve consequences and compromises.

If we’re asked to work overtime, there’s a trade-off that occurs somewhere else because we can’t be in two places at once. If we’re not conscious of what the trade-off is, we might not have considered the things we’re giving up.

Working from home sounds ideal for those who’ve never done that before. But that too comes with a set of specific boundary issues.

Aspects of working from home that may need to be addressed include a whole new set of possible distractions; a greater need for self-discipline; having to create reasons to leave your home and get fresh air; and knowing when to put work down when you’re always at your place of work.

We can feel passionate and motivated about our jobs and still get burned out. Truth is, the more passionate we might feel, the easier it is for us to find an excuse for the long hours because we take pleasure and find purpose in what we’re working on.

Remember to take breaks (coffee breaks, lunch breaks, vacation, etc). They are a good way to have respite and create space.