Setting Boundaries at Work: Two Additional Strategies 1. Prioritize Your Tasks: Time Management Techniques: Use time management techniques like the Pomodoro Technique to focus on your tasks without interruptions. Task Prioritization: Identify the most important tasks and allocate time accordingly. Learn to Say No: Politely decline additional work if you're already overloaded. 2. Leverage Technology: Communication Tools: Use communication tools like Slack or Microsoft Teams to manage your workload and avoid constant interruptions. Time Management Apps: Use time management apps to track your time and identify areas where you can improve productivity.

Sarah, often the go-to person, felt overwhelmed. She needed to set boundaries. She discussed her workload with her lead, emphasizing task prioritization. Sarah used time-blocking, dedicating specific slots for focused work and assistance. She politely declined unnecessary requests, prioritizing her tasks. Initially, saying no was tough, but consistent boundary-setting earned respect. By prioritizing and delegating, Sarah regained control and improved her work-life balance. Her experience highlights the importance of setting boundaries. Effective communication, task prioritisation, and delegation are key to a healthy work-life balance.

One practice I’ve found helpful is to fully embrace an "open door" policy. This may sound contradictory, but here’s why: 1. An open door allows for easy access to you. It’s important to build confidence and autonomy with that access. Though it won’t happen overnight, it is attainable with a dedicated and supportive mindset! 2. Implementing the "open door" provides you the opportunity to communicate when you will be unavailable. I find that team members respect this which helps to set a healthy boundary. Lastly, a coworker or team member who is dependent on others typically has low confidence. The more you praise their achievements and redirect them toward areas for growth, the quicker they can achieve independence.

Protect your time by prioritizing tasks, setting clear limits, and empowering coworkers to be self-sufficient—unless your job title is ‘Office Hero on Call'