Episode 67
Whether it’s a new job or a change in management, people are always concerned about setting boundaries at work. But boundaries, when not deployed or managed in a balanced way, can do more harm than good. Jonathan and Mark are back to discuss some best practices to help us all set healthy boundaries at work.
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Host(s): Jonathan Saar from Market Me Social and Mark Howell from Howl Creative Concepts
Show Highlights
With the great resignation in full force, many find themselves starting new jobs. Others are faced with new management challenges. Regardless of why you are starting with a new team, now is the time to reflect on what you are hoping to accomplish in your new role and be sure that while you are setting your boundaries, you aren’t creating barriers.
Key Questions/Topics Covered
Are your boundaries holding you back?
There are few things worse than hearing someone say, “that’s not how we did it.” If you loved how much things were done with your last company, then why didn’t you stay? Or, if it’s the case of new management, comments like this are not productive and can result in greater alienation vs. the integration that a functional team needs. Change happens, and while we want to retain our healthy boundaries, we have to understand they we may need to tweak them according to our new circumstances.
Part of integrating with a new team or new management is closely paying attention to what is going on. Listen carefully to what others are saying and doing and contribute when appropriate. It’s tempting to try and have an answer for everything, but this is not necessarily a great practice. Having unrealistic expectations and trying to do too much can only lead to burnout. Additionally, taking a hard line with your team and insisting on your way of doing things will also not produce the results you are looking for. Having balanced boundaries means having a meaningful share as a team member, allowing others to help and contribute to a truly combined effort and result.
Sharing your healthy boundaries in a constructive way
The best way to share your boundaries with your team is to get to know them. What is their love language? Be patient with your fellow team members and be realistic about your expectations. If you find yourself in a situation where you feel that your boundaries are being encroached upon, talk it out but be sure to wrap your words in kindness.
Part of having healthy boundaries is how people feel when they are around you. When you walk into a room, what is your aura? What is your mindset? If you are focused only on your needs and boundaries, you will have difficulty melding with your team, and they will most likely want to avoid you.
Boundaries are there to serve as protection, but they should never interfere with our career growth. Take some time and review what is important to you and your new team or managers and make a plan and jump in with an open mind.
Class dismissed!
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