Week 49 - ending 12/9: Boundaries

I was talking with a friend the other day who asked me a question about boundaries. She said, "have you noticed lately that your boundaries have been being breached? If so, how and by whom?"

I sat for a minute and thought about it. The truth is I have experienced that and where I experience it is at work. For the last several months we have been working on a project that has not been going smoothly. The result of that has been emergency meetings and random phone calls. My days start out with 2 scheduled meetings and ample time for me to get other things done. They turn into all day meetings and me not getting any other work done.

Normally, this is an occasional occurrence. However, lately it has become commonplace. I am also noticing that this culture is starting to take hold. I feel like it is a disrespect of my time and boundaries. I know a few of my coworkers are less organized and enjoy working in a freer flowing workspace. However, I need respect to work the way I feel comfortable.

The result of this chaotic schedule has bled into my personal life. My health and well-being is now chaotic and I am forced to use my spare moments to catch up with myself and those important to me.

Many people speak of work life balance in the terms of time spent at work or working vs at home. However, I think people forget that even if you are not working, work life balance can be off. If the work is causing an imbalance within you, which affects your personal life, it is not balanced. While I am great at compartmentalizing some things, my emotions all swim in the same pool. Their origins are all different, but the feelings, thoughts, and consequences all mold into one.

As the year ends, and this project ends, I am making bourndaries and balance, key goals for next year. Here's to stronger walls and more stability.