The word “boundaries” has been having a moment. While we usually correspond the word with friends, family, or significant others, boundaries can also play a huge role in the workplace. According to a study conducted by The Balance, “the average hours worked per week in the U.S. was 38.7 hours as of 2021”, meaning the average US worker spends a little less than ⅓ of their life at work besides vacation and weekends.
With a global pandemic almost behind us, an ever-evolving political atmosphere, and a collective change in perspective around what constitutes healthy work environments, it’s more important than ever to establish a clear space between yourself and your job. As the New Year rang in with heightened expectations we want to encourage a resolution or intention for 2023 to include setting boundaries.
Why should there be boundaries in the workplace?
Setting and maintaining boundaries is a muscle that needs to be practiced and practiced often. How many times can you remember taking an extra shift even though it meant sacrificing rest? Or taking on an extra assignment even though you had your own full workload? Do you work beyond your job description just to make nice with your boss? It’s pretty much agreed that at one point or another, we’ve all gone above and beyond in our workplaces even when it meant sacrificing our own obligations or peace.
The truth is, setting and upholding boundaries will make you a better employee and make your time off more intentional. It will also prevent you from burning out. You’ve heard that you can’t pour from an empty cup but this applies to all of us, not just other people. Setting boundaries can teach us what is truly important and what should be prioritized in order to truly
Tangible and easy ways to place boundaries
Boundary setting doesn’t have to be this gigantic mountain to climb over. Think of it more as a set of small but consistent steps that must be practiced every day, or at least whenever possible. It is important to remember that it is not possible or healthy to say yes to everything, and that it is okay to prioritize your own well-being. By becoming comfortable with saying no, you can better manage your workload and avoid burnout.
Starting small is key and can build the foundation for stronger boundaries in the future. Define the values that you want to protect. Then think about what boundaries need to be put in place to defend said values. Do you enjoy your weekends because you can spend them with family and friends? Or perhaps you have a hobby you commit to every Tuesday night and sometimes work bleeds into those plans. Or it could be that you simply do not want to be contacted when you clock out, no questions asked.
Simple steps you can take include abiding by a clear work schedule, not taking meetings or calls after your work day has ended, leaving an away message on your email for periods of time away from the office, and not answering your phone or emails on the weekends. These may seem simple but you’d be surprised how often one can get wrapped up in needing to be connected all day every day. It is completely okay to say no in the workplace, including in a nonprofit setting. It is important to remember that you are a human being with limits and boundaries, and it is okay to set those limits in order to take care of yourself.
Interpersonal relationships and work
Messy interpersonal relationships such as in-office romances with work colleagues, company happy hours that turn into all-night benders, and the infamous phrase “we’re all family here” happen because of a lack of boundaries. Since work tends to become a big part of our lives it is important to understand that it must stay just there, at work. Keeping discretion with intimate details about your personal life and staying out of the latest office gossip is absolutely essential.
Keep work relationships professional and lighthearted. Of course, it’s normal to befriend coworkers, support their personal lives and be proud of your work and its space. However, things get messy when work and personal lives become intertwined to the point of firing, lack of professionalism, or other serious consequences. The “work family” mentality has a reputation for things such as lack of pay transparency, uneven power dynamics and harassment, amongst others.
The benefits of boundaries in the workplace
Overall, upholding boundaries at work is important for creating a positive and healthy work environment for all employees. When boundaries are respected, employees are more likely to feel comfortable and safe in the workplace, which can lead to increased productivity and job satisfaction. In addition, setting and upholding boundaries can help to prevent burnout and work-related stress, and can protect employees from harassment and other forms of mistreatment.
Nonprofit work can often be emotionally demanding, and it is important to recognize when you are reaching your own limits and to take care of yourself accordingly. Saying no can be a healthy way to set boundaries and protect your own well-being.
Upholding boundaries is also important for promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (D.E.I.) in the workplace. By respecting each other’s boundaries, employees are able to create a safe and inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and supported. This is especially important for marginalized and underrepresented groups, who may have experienced a lack of boundaries and respect in the past. By establishing and upholding clear boundaries, companies can create a more equitable and inclusive culture that benefits all employees.
How to ask for help
Boundary setting is an important aspect of healthy and effective work practices, and it is completely normal to need help with this from time to time. If you or your organization are struggling with boundary setting, it may be helpful to seek support from a professional. There are many resources available that can help you to better understand and set boundaries in the workplace.
Some options might include consulting with a professional- like us at Commvey, seeking guidance from a mentor or supervisor, or working with a therapist or coach who specializes in work-related issues. It is important to remember that it is normal to lack boundaries at times, and seeking support is a sign of strength and a commitment to improving your work practices. By seeking help and learning more about boundary setting, you can create a healthier and more productive work environment for yourself and your organization.