4 ways to set healthy boundaries at work

Most people understand the importance of setting healthy boundaries in a relationship. But, it’s just as important to have them in place at work. Without boundaries in your professional life you run the risk of experiencing burnout. 

Research has shown that work is a major source of stress for people. In fact, the American Institute of Stress states that 83% of workers in the U.S. suffer from work-related stress. 

Setting boundaries can help. But, it’s understandable if you’re not sure how or if you’re nervous about potential consequences. At the end of the day, your well-being needs to be prioritized. You shouldn’t be afraid to set boundaries at work that meet your needs. 

With that in mind, let’s cover a few helpful ways to set healthy boundaries at work and why doing so is important.

1. Walk the Line of Information

Coworkers can make a job wonderful. You might end up meeting your new best friend and someone you can confide in — especially if you don’t love the job you’re doing. 

But, it’s important to be careful when it comes to how much information you give people at work. If there are one or two coworkers you’ve grown close with and consider friends, you’re going to be more open with them. 

Unfortunately, being that open with everyone at work isn’t a great idea. One bad apple can spoil the bunch, and if someone has a lot of your personal information, they might try to find ways to use it against you. So, while it’s good to get to know your team, be careful about opening up with a lot of personal talk too quickly.

2. Take Breaks

Most jobs are required to give their full-time employees at least one break a day for lunch. Others encourage more frequent breaks, and some let you essentially set your own schedule throughout the day. 

Whether breaks are encouraged or not, take them. Even if you step away from your desk for ten minutes to stretch your legs, it can make a big difference in how you feel. Frequent breaks don’t take away from productivity. They can actually help to boost your motivation and creativity. Plus, they give you a chance to breathe and focus on other things for a few minutes. 

3. Set a Schedule

One of the best boundaries you can set for yourself is to maintain a consistent schedule. Finding a work-life balance isn’t easy for everyone. It’s going to be even harder if you work late every night or you’re answering work e-mails at home when you want to spend time with your family. 

If you have set working hours in a day, stick to them. Taking on a bit extra now and then isn’t a bad thing, but don’t make it a habit, or people will start to expect it from you. 

It’s okay to say “no” when asked to handle a task that would take up too much of your mental bandwidth. It doesn’t mean you aren’t productive or a good worker — it means you know how to strike that healthy work-life balance. 

4. Let Your Voice Be Heard

If you’ve been working in a place for too long that doesn’t respect boundaries, speak up. That might seem scary at first, but it’s the best way to get the respect you deserve and let your employers and coworkers know that you’re prioritizing your mental health. 

Plus, if you speak up about boundaries, others might do the same. It’s a great way to get a business to look at their current policies and potentially make changes for the benefit of their workers. 

It doesn’t have to be overwhelming to set healthy boundaries at work. Think about what you really need and what should be done to make it easier to manage stress and promote your well-being. 

If you could use support with work-life balance and burnout prevention contact me to set up an appointment.

If fear prevents you from setting boundaries, check out our page on anxiety therapy.