Work life balance is a myth. But that doesn’t mean we don’t need to set boundaries when it comes to work. Yes, boundaries will sometimes need to be moved for a time when work requires a little extra attention for a specific reason or season, but if work is always requiring extra attention then something is out of alignment.
So what do we do when work life and personal life feel badly out of tune with each other?
- Ask yourself: Where is your time being spent? What situations trigger your stress? Really dig down and be honest about where things don’t feel in alignment. Write down the answers to help you see what patterns emerge.
- Looking at what you wrote down above, where you need to either set or reset boundaries & make a plan?
Some personality types can struggle with setting boundaries. Knowing your Enneagram type shows you WHY you do what you do can help you know what situations may be difficult for you to set boundaries with. Knowing this can also help you be proactive when others try to push back on the boundaries you’ve set.
Putting boundaries in place or back into place can feel like putting toothpaste back into the tube. It can be a struggle.
Clear boundaries are vital for not only our mental health, but also our physical health. Let’s face it. We aren’t going to be effective at all if we aren’t taking care of ourselves and rest and time away from work is absolutely necessary.
Here are 4 tips to help you set or reset boundaries:
- Clearly define the boundary: Get crystal clear on why it’s important to set the boundary then communicate it kindly, but directly.
- Prepare for pushback: Anticipate how others might react and have your reasons ready.
- Manage your own resistance: It can be uncomfortable for some personality types to set boundaries. Remind yourself of why you need to do this.