First, acknowledge that someone else is requesting your guidance, that means that you're in the right path. The best way to maintain boundaries when being asked a favor, is to direct them with others who might be able to assist them. By doing so, you're not only being respectful to your and their time, values and capabilities, but also, you're still helping them, and you'll be remembered as a valuable member of their network.

On LinkedIn, maintain boundaries by prioritizing mutually beneficial requests aligned with your expertise or projects. Politely decline irrelevant favors, offering alternative resources or advice if possible. Set clear expectations in your communication and focus on fostering genuine, professional relationships that support long-term collaboration and value exchange.

For those of us who naturally gravitate towards saying yes and giving, navigating favor requests within a professional network can be challenging. However, maintaining boundaries is essential for a balanced and supportive community. Pro Tip: To achieve this, establish priorities, set realistic expectations, and promote mutual support. Be prepared to politely decline when necessary, offer alternatives, and cultivate an environment that values both giving and receiving. By doing so, you can create a collaborative space that empowers everyone while preserving your own well-being.