Boundaries at Work: 4 Types of Work Boundaries

Boundaries are the rules and guidelines workers implement for themselves and human resources establish for a company to set clear lines between one’s professional and personal life. [Human resources](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/human-resource-management-guide) departments often develop protocols to protect employees from workplace harassment. Other work boundaries might include an employee’s limit to respond to emails during set work hours. Healthy work boundaries maintain a worker’s safety and physical, emotional, and mental health. There are several work boundaries employees can set to prioritize safety and self-care: 1. __Emotional boundaries__: These boundaries are often made by <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/robin-robertss-tips-for-effective-communication' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/robin-robertss-tips-for-effective-communication","linkCopy":"communicating","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>communicating preferences and leading from a place of compassion and kindness. Emotional boundaries may include sharing how you prefer to [receive feedback](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-ask-for-feedback), being sensitive to other people’s feelings, and respecting other people’s needs for personal space and time away (and requesting that for yourself, when needed). 2. __Time boundaries__: Time boundaries specify when workers are on the clock and when they should log off and step away from work email. 3. __Physical boundaries__: Boundaries can dictate how employees physically engage with one another and establish a safe work environment devoid of harassment. You can also set physical boundaries to protect your personal space and workstation. 4. __Mental boundaries__: Family time, relaxation, and [paid time off](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-ask-for-a-day-off) ensure workers enjoy vacation time and do not feel constantly tied to their work. Mental limitations also come into play when employees need a personal day or need to set limits on how much they can devote to their work during challenging times. Clear boundaries allow employees to do their best work. Set healthy boundaries in your office or workplace by following these steps: 1. __Review your job description__. Boundary setting begins by ensuring your work responsibilities are not more than those in your job outline. If you feel you are doing additional work outside this description and are not being compensated for it, start a conversation with your supervisor. 2. __Check in with yourself__. Take a pulse check to see if others infringe on your workstation, if your boss expects you to work hours outside your designated schedule, or if coworkers make you feel uncomfortable. These can indicate the need for more personal boundaries, which you should discuss with managers or human resources. 3. __Communicate before bad habits set in__. Your mental, physical, and emotional well-being are vital. If other team members are negatively affecting your workplace or personal wellness, communicate with someone you trust who can help create a healthier office culture. Document issues and share them as they happen to protect and maintain boundaries. 4. __Maintain healthy work relationships__. Opt for handshakes over hugs and speak kindly to others about professional but not personal matters. These actions can aid in establishing a safe working environment. 5. __Take time off__. Time away from communication platforms, emails, and phone calls is essential. When using vacation time, log off so you are not disturbed by work notifications and can relax and recharge. 6. __Learn when to say no__. Workers may feel pressure to take on every task offered up to impress superiors and get ahead, but saying no is vital to maintaining a work-life balance, prioritizing self-care, and avoiding [burnout](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-burnout). Get the [MasterClass Annual Membership](https://www.masterclass.com/) for exclusive access to video lessons taught by business luminaries, including Sara Blakely, Chris Voss, Robin Roberts, Bob Iger, Howard Schultz, Anna Wintour, and more. Setting boundaries in the workplace is an integral part of taking care of your physical and emotional well-being and establishing a healthy work-life balance. Learn how to set and protect boundaries.