Boundaries in the Workplace: A Brief Guide
Boundaries in the Workplace
“You cannot change how others behave, what you can change is how you participate with them.”
Protect your peace.
In a work environment where you feel anxious, unheard, and disrespected, boundaries are one
way you can take action. This doesn’t mean trying to control or change anyone else — you only have control over yourself and how you respond to the situation.
Boundaries are here to help you protect your emotional and mental well-being. They are for you to know how and where you want to moderate your behaviour to protect yourself, they are not for
someone else to change their behaviour. What Are Personal Boundaries?
Personal boundaries are the limits and rules we set for ourselves within relationships. They define what behaviour we will and will not accept. Boundaries are not for others to control — they are for you to assert, so you can feel safe, respected, and valued in your interactions. They help us manage our own needs and preserve and protect our emotional energy.
Boundaries Are for You
Youcan’tcontrolhowothersact. Whatyoucancontrolishowyourespondandwhatyou’re willing to tolerate. Boundaries aren’t about changing others. They’re about changing your engagement to ensure your own well-being.
Why Boundaries Matter
Boundaries are your way of saying:
“This is what I need to function well.”
“This is what I won’t tolerate.”
“This is how I will protect myself.”
“This is what I will show up for and this is what I will not show up for”
How to Identify Your Boundaries
Before you set boundaries, it helps to know what’s important to you. Your values guide theboundariesyouneed. Firstclarifyyourvaluesbyaskingyourselfsomequestions.
Do I value respect in how I communicate and how others communicate with me?
Do I value collaboration and feeling like my contributions matter?
Do I need peace of mind to do my best work?
Do I value autonomy in my decision-making?
Do I value work-life balance and need boundaries around work hours?
Julie Eve Ocean WatkinsonTherapeutic Behaviour Coach
Julieocean.com
hello@julieocean.com
0493730661
Examples of Workplace Boundaries
Here are some practical boundaries to protect your well-being in a work environment:
Setting limits on communication:
“I’d prefer if we could keep our conversations respectful. If that doesn’t happen, I will
needtostepawayfromthediscussion.” “Idon’tlikebeingspokentointhisway,I’m
happy to continue when we can be respectful to each other”
Managing workload expectations:
“I cannot take on additional tasks right now. My current workload is full, and I want to
ensure I meet my existing deadlines.”
Protecting your time and focus:
“I’d appreciate it if we could schedule time to discuss this during working hours instead of after hours.”
Addressing disrespect:
“I don’t appreciate how this was addressed. Let’s find a way to communicate that feels respectful to both of us.”
Short Phrases to Assert Boundaries
It’s often challenging to assert boundaries, especially in a workplace where you feel anxious or dismissed. Here are some clear and concise phrases you can use:
When you're interrupted or dismissed:
“I’d like to finish my point before we move on.”When your work is disrespected:
“I’ve worked hard on this, and I’d appreciate if my ideas were considered.”When you need to protect your time:
“I’m not available for that right now. Let’s set a time that works for both of us.”When communication becomes toxic:
“I need a moment. Let’s continue this conversation when we can both speak respectfully.”Remember: Boundaries Are for Your Well-Being
Your mental and emotional health is worth protecting, no matter what. Setting boundaries in a toxic environment isn’t about confrontation — it’s about self-care. By focusing on what you can
control, you empower yourself to navigate difficult work relationships in a way that supports your values and well-being. Boundaries may feel uncomfortable at first, but over time, they will help
you reclaim your peace and self-respect in the workplace.