Feeling overwhelmed by work? You’re not alone. Even when you love your career, burnout can make you resent your colleagues or your work, and it may even cause you to neglect your own well-being.
Setting boundaries will be your weapon against burnout. Use these 7 tips to do so:
1. Clock out!
This is one if not the most important boundary you need to set, when you are battling burnout. Yes, hard work and going beyond what is expected, is how you will work your way towards that promotion you’ve been dreaming of. When you are struggling with burnout, though, your well-being must come first.
Make a commitment to specific work hours and stick to them. Once your workday ends, step away from work and resist the urge to check in. Your downtime is crucial for recharging.
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2. Claim your space
If you work from home, setting boundaries between ‘work’ and ‘life’ mode is important. Create a dedicated workspace that’s just for work. When you leave this space, you signal to your brain that work is over. Try not to work from bed, or from behind the TV – you shouldn’t blur the lines between your professional and personal time.
3. Prioritise, say no when you need to
Focus on your top tasks and don’t be afraid to say no when necessary. Be honest with yourself about what’s manageable in a day, and prioritise tasks that align with your goals. Your manager will continue to pile onto your plate, unless you vocalise your capacity and your struggle with burn out.
ALSO SEE: What’s your work language? | Ways to boost your workplace wellness
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4. Speak up
Adding to the above, let your team and boss know your boundaries from the get-go, and stick to them as best you can. Share when you’re available and when you need time to focus. Clear communication helps prevent misunderstandings and reduces work-related stress.
ALSO SEE: How to stop feeling guilty for using your annual leave
5. Take that leave day
If you’ve got annual leave due and you feel that you need a break, don’t be shy to take a day of leave. You are entitled to doing so, so don’t feel guilty. However, if you are facing burnout, it’s likely that others on your team are, too. Plan leave and have it approved by your manager well in advance to avoid adding pressure to your team.
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