A warm autumn hello!
This month we are talking about boundaries.
Everyone has different comfort levels with setting and communicating boundaries, even experienced leaders.
Boundaries are about knowing what you want and need and asking for this. Contrary to popular opinion, they are not static and fixed – they have a sense of dynamism as they, we and/or our situations change.
Wherever you stand on boundaries, here are some of my favorite tips:
- Think about where you might want to add and/or change a boundary at work and home.
- Imagine what a boundary looks like in each scenario – try to frame it in one sentence or less. Example: I want to separate my work from home.
- Get comfortable communicating your boundaries. If you receive an evening email, you may respond like this: “Thanks for emailing. I don’t work after 18h. I’ll circle back to you tomorrow.”
- Use clear language. Own your ideas, views and feelings with “I” statements. Be clear: “What I would prefer is…”
- Learn to get comfortable with “NO” – saying it, hearing it, and its nuance. “No” can mean not right now or not in this way.
Remember that setting boundaries is NOT something that you do only once – think of it as an act of self-care that requires intention and practice.
Happy leading and happy learning!
Palena
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