How to Set Boundaries at Work Without Feeling Guilty
Mark Tanchoco Reid
Founder & Mind Empower Coach: Transforming executives and professionals' mental well-being BSc | DHP Acc.HYP | SAC DIP
Did you know that 79% of UK executives and business leaders?report experiencing workplace stress, with many citing the pressure of constant availability and an overwhelming workload as primary causes?
According to the Mental Health Foundation, the blurring of boundaries between professional and personal time is a key driver of stress, especially for those at the top. For business owners, executives, and team leaders, the pressure to be “always on” can quickly lead to burnout, anxiety, and impaired decision-making.
As leaders, the notion of setting boundaries might seem counter intuitive—after all, aren’t you supposed to be available for every decision, every crisis, every challenge? However, research shows that creating and maintaining boundaries doesn’t reduce your commitment—it enhances your leadership. Setting clear limits on your availability and workload not only protects your well-being but also improves your focus, decision-making, and effectiveness as a leader. The trick is to do it without guilt, and that’s what we’ll explore here.
Why Leaders Need Boundaries More Than Ever
Boundaries in the workplace are critical for everyone, but for those in leadership positions, they are even more essential. A study published in the Journal of Occupational and Organizational Psychology?found that leaders who consistently maintain boundaries experience lower stress levels, improved mental health, and higher job satisfaction. Moreover, these leaders report better team dynamics, as their example fosters a healthier work culture across their organisations.
Without boundaries, leaders risk over-committing, making impulsive decisions, and burning out. By setting clear limits, you protect not just your mental and physical health, but also the sustainability of your leadership and business.
A Real-Life Example: The Overloaded Leader
A business owner I recently worked with found herself constantly overwhelmed, particularly when senior staff went on holiday. She had taken the leadership role with the understanding that work-life balance was important, but whenever her deputy or key executives were away, she was expected to fill the gap. Not only did this lead to her managing extra responsibilities, but it also created a culture where her availability was assumed, regardless of personal time or outside commitments.
This situation eroded her ability to focus on strategic leadership, and the promises of balanced work made at the outset were being ignored. Over time, this became unsustainable. By working together, we devised a plan to create stronger boundaries, especially around expectations for when she could step in to cover for others and when the organisation needed to plan for contingencies. This allowed her to reclaim her role, improve her well-being, and create a culture where balance was respected for everyone.
Set boundaries without feeling guilty at work:
1. Redefine Leadership for Sustainability
It’s a common misconception that great leaders are always available. However, leadership in today’s world is about making strategic, high-impact decisions—not micromanaging or constantly reacting to every problem. A study from Harvard Business Review?found that executives who focus on high-value activities and limit distractions are up to 40% more effective than those who remain in “firefighting mode.”
By redefining leadership as a role that requires clarity and focus, you can more easily let go of the guilt associated with setting boundaries. Acknowledge that saying "no" to some tasks allows you to say "yes" to the bigger picture that drives the company’s success.
2. Communicate Boundaries with Confidence
Clear communication is the foundation of effective boundary-setting. This applies to both internal teams and external stakeholders. When you need to protect your time, explain why this boundary exists and how it benefits the organisation as a whole. For example, letting your team know that you won’t be available after a certain time or during the weekends helps manage expectations.
A Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD)?study highlighted that leaders who proactively communicate their boundaries are not seen as disengaged; rather, they are viewed as more in control and focused. You could say, “In order to focus on key decisions and ensure long-term growth, I’ll be offline after 6 PM. For urgent matters, please book time with me during office hours.”
3. Delegate with Purpose
Delegation is not just a way to free up your time; it’s a powerful tool for building trust and empowering your team. Research from Deloitte UK?shows that executives who delegate strategically not only reduce their own stress but also see a 30% increase in team productivity. Leaders often hesitate to delegate, fearing the loss of control. But effective delegation demonstrates trust in your team and allows you to focus on what really matters—leading with a clear vision.
For example, instead of micromanaging every project, delegate tasks to trusted team members with clear objectives and timelines. This not only lightens your load but encourages innovation and accountability within your team.
领英推荐
4. Set Tech Boundaries
In an always-connected world, the pressure to be available via email or messaging apps can feel overwhelming. The British Medical Journal?reports that UK executives who set boundaries around digital communication experience better mental health and improved focus. Limiting access to work emails and messages after a certain time is essential to recharge and maintain balance.
Consider establishing clear guidelines with your team about after-hours communication. For example, let them know that non-urgent matters will be handled during business hours, and encourage your team to adopt similar boundaries. This creates a healthier work culture for everyone.
5. Schedule Regular Downtime
As a leader, it’s crucial to prioritise rest and recovery. Downtime is not a luxury—it’s a necessity for sustainable leadership. Research by the NeuroLeadership Institute?shows that executives who schedule regular downtime are more creative, make better decisions, and are more resilient.
Block time in your schedule for personal reflection, deep work, and rest. i.e. work with a peak performance coach on lifestyle, energy and emotional balance. At MTR Performance coaching, we offer bespoke coaching focusing on all areas such as relaxation, overcoming limiting beliefs to effective communication and relationship building. By doing this, you are not only protecting your mental health but also ensuring that you are operating at your peak performance when you are needed most.
Overcoming the Guilt: Leading with Clarity
It’s natural for leaders to feel guilty about setting boundaries, particularly in high-pressure environments. However, guilt is misplaced when it comes to protecting your effectiveness and well-being. In fact, a Deloitte UK?study found that 87% of business leaders who set clear boundaries report improved job satisfaction and better work-life balance. Rather than viewing boundaries as barriers, see them as essential tools for maintaining your leadership edge. By setting limits, you protect your time, ensure clarity in decision-making, and model a healthy, productive work culture for your team.
Final Thoughts: Leading by Example
As a leader, setting boundaries is not just about protecting yourself—it’s about demonstrating that balance is key to long-term success. Clear, respectful boundaries foster a work environment that values both productivity and well-being, which can transform the culture of an entire organisation.
As Brené Brown eloquently said, “Daring to set boundaries is about having the courage to love ourselves, even when we risk disappointing others.”?Leaders who set boundaries are not shying away from responsibility—they are embracing a sustainable way to lead with clarity, purpose, and resilience.
By implementing these strategies and letting go of guilt, you can not only enhance your own leadership but also inspire a healthier, more balanced approach to work for your entire team. In the end, strong boundaries are the foundation of strong leadership.
---------
Want more information on how to do this effectively? Feel free to contact me.
Enjoyed this post...Set boundaries without feeling guilty at work.
Please follow for more, visit www.mtrcoaching.com
Author: Mark Tanchoco Reid, Founder of MTR Performance Coaching
References:
Medical Disclaimer: The information on this site is not?intended or implied to be a substitute?for professional medical advice, diagnosis?or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified medical professional with any health questions you may have. Do not begin a new medical regimen, or ignore the advice of a medical professional, as a result of information contained within this website.