Set Better Work Boundaries

As I grew into my role as an executive coach, I learned to set better boundaries. In the beginning, I'd say yes to lots of projects — it's what many Solopreneurs do. Now, I'm more careful of what I commit to. I have no qualms about pushing back because I'm no good to anyone if I'm not at my best.

Imagine the following:

It's the start of a brand new working week. You've just arrived at the office after a lovely weekend. As you get ready to settle in and start on your project, your phone rings, asking for something. It's not urgent for you, but it is for them. Do you

a) Wished you never picked the phone up

b) Seethe inside when you speak with them

c) Ask to call them back

d) Don't pick up

If you picked up the call and hoped it would be quick, read on.

If you want to thrive this week, try the following:

1 Don't say yes to everything

2 Add some buffer into your week

3 Plan Ahead

4 Take breaks

5 Don't eat your lunch at your desk

6 Get out for a brisk walk

7 Do something completely different in your free time

It's essential to set better boundaries because burnout is real

Preventing Burn Out

I often see this in clients either on the verge of burnout or showing early signs of burnout. It's not very pleasant at all.

Don't feel you'll be judged if you push back or say no. If you have a healthy working relationship with your manager, then you should be able to highlight what's working or not. Remember, they're there to support you, not trip you up or make life difficult.

Speak Nicely To Yourself

This one is crucial, especially if you want to be in control of your actions. I'm a fan of affirmations because they are influential in helping you manage your self-talk.

Replace sentences like 'I'm drowning in my work' ❎

To 'What needs doing first? Who else can support me ✅

You'll notice the subtle shift can make all the difference.

Learn to Push Back

Pushing back doesn't mean you're not a team player or a good employee. Instead, identify what's working and what's not. Instead of taking on work when you know it can't be done quickly, try 'I don't have any capacity right now.' Instead of saying yes, try saying no. You have more control than you think.

Parting Comments

Sometimes, it's easy to get caught up in busyness, but this can be detrimental to our inner and outer well-being.

I've seen people sign off work for months because they've had a breakdown because they thought they could cope. They carried on and paid a heavy price. It would have been better today, but they battled with an ever-increasing workload.

I'm not saying this will happen to you; what I'm advocating is learning to set better work boundaries.

As I grew into my role as an executive coach, I learned to set better boundaries. In the beginning, I'd say yes to lots of projects — it's…