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How to Create Professional Boundaries with Work Colleagues and Clients
Let’s face it: it’s hard to maintain your sense of self when you’re surrounded by people trying to make their way, and you might feel like everyone needs something from you all the time.
But that doesn’t mean boundaries aren’t important or necessary — they’re essential, even. So whether it’s coworkers or clients requesting favors from you daily, learning how to set limits with them is vital if you want to thrive in your career and feel fulfilled outside of it.
Recognize the need for boundaries.
Boundaries are essential for good relationships. If you don’t establish them, people will take advantage of you and your time. They won’t respect your boundaries, and they may not even be aware that they’re doing it. You will feel drained, hurt, and frustrated, but those feelings won’t go away unless you address the problem head-on.
Consider your needs.
You’re not the only one who has to work with other people. So make sure you consider their needs, too.
Think about your priorities.
As you think about your priorities, consider the following:
- What are your values?
