Setting Boundaries at Work
When it comes to workplace burnout, one of the main contributors is not setting boundaries at work. Whether it’s a new job or one you’re currently in, setting workplace boundaries is important. If you’re in a new job, before you actually start, spend some time to reflect on what happened at your previous jobs, did you get burnout? What caused you to have burnout? Is there anything you can do to help you set new boundaries for this job so you won’t get workplace burnout?
So how can you do it? We’re here to help, here is how to set workplace boundaries.
Why set boundaries right away?
Boundaries can be hard to set at a new job because you feel like you have to act a certain way or conform, to fit in with the team. It may feel easier to follow the same structure you have in previous jobs. But making these boundaries makes sure you’re happy with every decision you make, so you know your limitations and what space you have. Not only that but you feel in control!
Setting boundaries right away helps you start the right way, so you give yourself the best chance of being successful in your role. As you’re managing expectations from the get-go. Additionally, it gives your employer a sense of what’s important to you, and what works best for you to maintain a work-life balance. Here are some tips to set boundaries and help prevent workplace burnout.
Establish on and off hours
Hold yourself to a strict working schedule. Let your manager know so they are not contacting you after hours. On and off hours are important, it lets people know you need relaxation time. Whether that’s to spend it with family or just not thinking about work. Your life shouldn’t revolve around the work that you do. Yes, you need the on hours, so your colleagues know you can support them, but the off hours are just as important.
Avoid saying yes all the time
You may be a person who wants to say yes to everything but inside you’re really saying no. You can’t always be the only one saying yes. It comes across as reliable, but at what point does it go over the line? Do you even have the capacity to take on the task?
Take time out to think about how long the task will be. Instead of responding immediately. Really think about how this will affect you and any other projects you have. Be open with your managers. If you don’t physically have the time tell them! Putting yourself under pressure is just going to add to burnout.
Speak up when boundaries are crossed!
If the boundaries you set have been crossed, speak up! You’ve set them for a reason and they need to be respected. Ask for support when needed, a good manager should listen to you and be able to help in any way they can. If anyone is ignoring any boundaries, let someone know. Set up a meeting with the person who is ignoring the boundaries and let them know why they shouldn’t be ignoring them.
Everyone has different boundaries, so take some time to consider what’s right for you. What solution do you need to ensure the boundaries remain? We’d definitely suggest that you have a chat with your employer or manager about the boundaries and limits. Tell them why they’re important to you. This will help them understand where you’re coming from. They can also put things in place to make sure they aren’t being intentionally crossed.
Do you have any more tips on how to set boundaries? If so we’d love to learn more! Comment them below! If you have any questions then please get in touch with our team on 01205 805 155 and we would be happy to help.