Boundary Setting in the Workplace

---

A general understanding of boundary setting is drawing a line in which a personal function, limit, or edge is set. When we can set a boundary, we encourage, with veracity, a level of understanding that respects our spiritual, relational, and emotional parameters. Boundary setting honors what you, as a professional, feel is secure and acceptable. Boundaries define your autonomy, individualism, and personality, distinguishing you from others. 

Bolstering boundaries creates a better objective of what we try to accomplish, reinforcing relationships with others and ourselves. Boundaries exist in every area of life, whether personally or professionally. However, it is possible to disregard boundaries in the workplace when it comes to self-care. 

Boundary perspective states that humans paradigm boundaries psychologically and behaviorally when attempting to consolidate personal and professional realms. For example, this may include using distinct email accounts, turning cell phones off after a specific time, or attending to personal matters during breaks. 

However, sometimes, it is not feasible to enact preferred boundary settings in the workplace due to time constraints and professional demands. Essentially, preferred professional boundaries may go dismissed, unnoticed, unmanageable, or forgotten. Nevertheless, work-life balance is central for overall well-being, profoundly affecting work satisfaction, and professional boundaries must be established in all aspects of life as these elements are relational to work. 

So, how do we establish boundary setting in the workplace that can carry over to all facets of life?