Why Boundaries at Work Are Essential

Key Points

• A boundary is a limit defining you in relation to someone or something.
• Boundaries can be physical, mental, emotional, tangible, or intangible.
• Boundaries help protect us, preserve our physical and emotional energy, and enable us to live by our values and standards.

Understanding Boundaries

A boundary defines your limits in relation to someone or something. These limits can be physical, mental, emotional, tangible, or intangible. For instance, if you inform someone that this is your office space, your desk, or your designated chair, you are setting a physical boundary.

Letting co-workers know you feel uncomfortable shaking hands or hugging at a holiday party, especially given the current state of Covid, also serves as a physical boundary. Physical boundaries are often easier to understand, but emotional or mental boundaries can be subtler and equally, if not more, important.

Emotional Boundaries

Emotional boundaries relate to your feelings and how someone’s behavior affects you. For example, if your boss yells at you in private or in front of co-workers, or a colleague frequently interrupts you during meetings, you may feel hurt, embarrassed, or even angry. By having a courageous conversation with your boss or co-worker about their behavior and the impact it has on you, you establish healthy emotional boundaries in the workplace.

Sometimes, boundaries combine physical and emotional elements, especially when dealing with overwork. For example, repeatedly being asked to work late during the week, on weekends, or while on vacation crosses both physical and emotional boundaries. This kind of constant demand often leads to stress and burnout over time.

Mental Boundaries

Mental boundaries align with your beliefs, values, cultural norms, ethics, and standards. For instance, you may value a workplace culture that treats employees and clients with respect and dignity while upholding ethical standards. After six months in a new role, you may realize that the company leaders act in ways that conflict with your values. This disconnect could cause significant stress and internal conflict, which may eventually lead to physical symptoms. Setting boundaries in such a scenario can help, and depending on the extent of the misalignment, you might need to seek out an organization with values that better align with your own.

The Importance of Boundaries

Boundaries serve several essential functions. They protect you, clarify your responsibilities, preserve your energy, and allow you to live by your values and standards. Conversely, not having healthy workplace boundaries often results in burnout, reduced productivity, poor performance, and increased turnover.

Learning to Set Boundaries

Learning how to set boundaries empowers you to prioritize your values and well-being, better manage stress, and take control of your personal and professional life. Setting and maintaining boundaries are critical skills that unfortunately aren’t often taught in school or the workplace. However, they are vital for your overall mental and emotional health.

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