In last week’s article, we ended with a tip about setting boundaries in order to get your most productive work done. We all know how important it is to have healthy boundaries – with yourself and in your relationship with others. Having boundaries is a way to weed out the unimportant and focus on the things that matter to you and that make you feel good.

Just like with personal relationships, work relationships also need healthy boundaries. Otherwise, you might end up resentful, burnt out, or highly unsatisfied at work. Most people have a hard time establishing healthy boundaries because they don’t want to seem like they aren’t a team player or just plain difficult to work with. But we should all remember that having healthy boundaries makes us productive, more willing to help, and easier to collaborate with.

Here are some examples of boundaries that we must set at work to make you happier:

Physical Boundaries
These are boundaries that make you physically comfortable. You must be able to move freely within your own space and at the same time, have the same respect for other people’s spaces. It’s not always a case of physical aggression, instances like not respecting your need to take a break, eat, or get some fresh air are also pushing your boundaries.

Emotional And Intellectual Boundaries
Create a healthy space between your personal and professional life. Watch your reaction to issues that are being aired out by co-workers. You don’t always have to agree on social issues or other things outside of work. Keep your romantic relationships private.

Time Boundaries
We all have struggled with time management. Understand that other people have issues with this too. Learn to say no when you have enough on your plate. You will not have the bandwidth to help or take care of other people’s problems – you are not even required to. If you can’t say no outright for fear of being judged as rude or uncooperative, you should at least say “I don’t have the time or bandwidth for that right now.” You are not required to respond to messages that are beyond your work hours or were sent at unreasonable times. Sure, globalization has us all working in different time zones. Whoever sent you that email at 1 am must be working in a different time zone and would not expect an answer until you get back to the office. Make it clear that you can only be reached outside of work hours in emergencies and that you will respond during the appropriate time.

It is easier to help people understand if you discuss your boundaries ahead of time, like when you join a new team or before heading out on a vacation. There will be instances when your boundaries are crossed. Restate your boundaries and don’t take it personally. People sometimes forget.

What are your work stories about setting boundaries? Got any tips? Share them with us in the comments. Remember to work smart and be a blessing to someone today. Stay safe and healthy!

Written by Jaie O. TheHelp