For the last installment of this 4-part series on Finding the Energy to Lead I would like to tackle what is likely our most challenging barrier when it comes to a healthy and happy lifestyle; setting workplace boundaries.
The tricky part about boundaries is that unless you define for others what your boundaries are, no one will ever know. If setting boundaries is difficult for you to do, by default people won’t respect them.
Setting boundaries is called for when:
- You never take a lunch break – and always eat at your desk
- You work 10-14 hours per day, yet have no time to tend to personal responsibilities
- You are always thinking about work and find it difficult to “turn it off”
- You are losing sleep on a regular basis (or need medication to sleep) due to work place stress
- You regularly miss important events in your personal life due to workplace demands
- You see your colleagues more than you do your family at home
- You never take a sick day – ever
- You experience physical symptoms due to work related issues
Setting boundaries is easier said than done. What I can tell you is that every time you make a boundary clear, it might be respected. Setting boundaries may make you extremely uncomfortable. The good news is, it is usually only uncomfortable for you! The other party rarely feels the discomfort.
What is most important to know is where your boundaries lie. Once you are clear, then you can begin to fold them into your daily life. Consider the following questions:
- In which situations do you feel your boundaries being crossed?
- When have you experienced healthy boundaries at work? What was the key difference between then and now?
- In your current role what 1-3 things would you like to change so that you feel you have your boundaries in place?
- Who are the individuals that seem to cross your boundaries the most? How?
Protecting yourself and your energy is one of the most important things you can do to be an effective employee. You will be more efficient, energized, creative and motivated if you are able to recharge your batteries and find a sense of balance in your life.
When setting a boundary with someone becomes uncomfortable, try silence. Do not explain away your boundary. Simply state your need and then be quiet. The discomfort being felt is only within. Over time that discomfort goes away.
If you begin to feel uncomfortable quitting early to catch your child’s game, leaving the building for lunch, or getting 7 solid hours of sleep – look yourself in the eye and ask, ‘Do I give my very best effort? Does my boundary harm another? If the answer is yes to effort and no to harm, keep moving .
Your personal boundaries are what you need. They are your business. The better you take care of you, the more effective you can be for others. Set boundaries now. Today.
I hope that you found this series helpful to you in your life as a professional.
If you are want more information on Finding the Energy to Lead, CLICK HERE.
For more information on how to improve your Fuel and Fitness for your Leader’s Lifestyle, please feel free to contact me, Natalie Peterson, at ‘natalie@donbrown.org’.
-Natalie Peterson MS, CSCS, RYT
Natalie is a naturally positive and energetic coach, speaker and transformational leadership development expert. She believes in a few simple truths when it comes to making things happen in your life. It starts with owning, knowing and developing who you are and continues with making sure that you are as healthy as possible in mind, body & soul. Natalie has a natural ability to see the best in people and to help bring that out in them. She would love to do the same for you.
web: www.nataliepeterson.net
email: natalie@donbrown.org
Facebook: Facebook.com/NataliePetey
