Bitesize: 3 simple ways to build better boundaries at work
Boundaries can sometimes sound a little confrontational.
But having good boundaries at work doesn’t mean saying no to everything or becoming difficult to work with. Often, it’s simply about being clearer about what you need to do your best work — whether that’s time, support, space to contribute or fewer distractions.
Drawing on advice from Jo Adams at K.A.G Recruitment here are three small ways to build healthier boundaries into your working day.
Start by noticing where you need them
Before changing anything, take a quick look at your working week.
Where are the moments that regularly leave you frustrated, stretched or unheard?
Perhaps you need more protected time to focus. Maybe you need greater clarity on priorities. Or perhaps you find it difficult to get your point across in busy meetings.
You don't need to overhaul everything at once. Pick one area where a little more clarity would make your working life easier and start there.
Say what you need — kindly and clearly
People aren't mind readers, and sometimes a small conversation can make a big difference.
If you're regularly spoken over in meetings, for example, it doesn't need to become a confrontation. A simple “I'd just like to finish that thought” can give you the space to make your point.
The same applies to workload. Being open about your capacity, asking for clarity on priorities or requesting support when you need it are all healthy workplace conversations.
And if you manage others, think about who in your team might need a little encouragement to do the same. Not everyone will feel equally confident speaking up.
Give yourself permission to switch off
Not every boundary involves another person.
Emails, Teams messages, notifications, news and social media can make it feel as though we're permanently switched on.
Jo recommends paying attention to how often you're checking technology and, importantly, how it makes you feel. Could you turn off a few notifications? Put your phone away while you're concentrating? Unfollow accounts that don't add anything positive?
Small changes can create a surprising amount of headspace.
Ultimately, good boundaries aren't about building walls around yourself.
They're about understanding what helps you work well and communicating that to the people around you.
Start small. Notice what you need, have the conversation and remember that being clear about your boundaries can make you a better colleague and leader — not a difficult one.
Connect with Jo on LinkedIn here
