Test: What’s your personal boundary weak spot?

Weak work-life boundaries can manifest in different ways, but they often show up in choices that undermine your wellbeing, don’t match your values, or don’t help you fulfil your potential. If you’re stuck in a work routine that no longer uplifts you or provides meaning or connection, it’s worth taking a look at your boundaries.

Sometimes weak boundaries stem from a need for validation, which at times can cloud your innate instincts about whether demands on you are unrealistic. Perfectionism can also undermine work boundaries if your conscientiousness and commitment to doing your best mean you end up taking too much on, taking too much responsibility, or just letting your hours creep up.

Often, lack of self-belief or shaky self-confidence is at the root of weak work boundaries, as it’s hard to stand up for yourself or believe you’ll ever have a more fulfilling work life when you see yourself through a ‘not good enough’ lens. Addressing the root cause is important, but simply becoming aware of your boundaries and when you’re going against your gut instinct will make an immediate difference. And remember, you’ll be far more productive, useful, and creative when your work sustains rather than drains you.