The Essentials: Setting and Maintaining Boundaries

We all need to set boundaries, even in the most structured jobs, because work has its way of encroaching on the rest of our life. Ashley, a senior analyst for the federal government, recently shifted to a schedule that helps her do her most important work and have some alone time before her family gets home. Now she’s trying to figure out how to further minimize interruptions, deal with slow and busy stretches, and get out of unproductive meetings.

Amy G and executive coach Melody Wilding talk through adjustments Ashley can make and things she can say to achieve those goals. They also offer strategies for how to communicate your new limits with colleagues and how to hold the line when your boundaries inevitably get tested.

Guest expert:

 Melody Wilding is an executive coach and the author of Trust Yourself: Stop Overthinking and Channel Your Emotions for Success at Work.

Resources:

• “How to Set Healthy Boundaries When Starting a New Job,” by Melody Wilding
• “What to Do When Work Is Slow,” by Elizabeth Grace Saunders
• “How to Protect Your Boundaries When Your Company Is Struggling,” by Susan Peppercorn
• “Set Better Boundaries,” by Priscilla Claman
• “Set These 5 Boundaries Before You Go on Vacation,” by Marlo Lyons

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