Workday Meditation – Before A Boundary-Setting Conversation

Setting healthy boundaries at work can feel uncomfortable. Ease into the situation with this guided practice. Feel confident that you can clearly and respectfully communicate with the other person. Background music used under Creative Commons CC BY-SA 3.0; “In the Past” by Purrple Cat.

Transcript

One of everyone's least favorite things to do at work is to set boundaries with someone else. Some people even avoid it at all costs. But boundaries are healthy and necessary. So why is it that we spend too much time avoiding them? Well, We all want to be liked, And we fear the other person will feel differently about us if we set that boundary. It's uncomfortable to tell someone they need to make a change. It's also uncomfortable to speak up and tell someone what we need. We might fear the other person's response, Or that they'll retaliate. That might mean anger or tears, Gossiping about us, Giving us the silent treatment, Or being passive aggressive. Boundaries require us to follow through on our part to levy any consequences. We also resist because we feel we shouldn't have to fix the other adult's behavior. They should know better. There are probably more reasons, Too. To prepare for a boundary-setting conversation, Repeat each of the following silently or out loud. Setting this boundary is an appropriate thing to do. I choose to communicate calmly and kindly, While still firmly and clearly setting the boundary. I will give the other person time and space to process what I've said and won't interrupt them. I'm not responsible for other people's behaviors or responses. Take a deep inhale and exhale. Remember that if the person verbally attacks you, They're most likely lashing out from a place of fear or hurt, And it has nothing to do with you. Take comfort in knowing you are thoughtful and deliberate in your approach, Not mean or rash or spiteful.