You are the only one who can protect your time and your interests. You have to establish the “line” you’re not willing to cross or allow others to cross. Whether it’s the number of hours you work, the work you do (and the work others do), or the physical layout of your workspace, there are things that are or are not comfortable for you.

The problem is, no one knows where your line is until you tell them they’ve crossed it. Unless you let others know your comfort zone, they will superimpose their own on you. Nine times out of 10, you’ll be dissatisfied with their choice. You must set boundaries to establish those lines.

As you think about defining your lines, take a moment to reflect on times you’ve felt taken advantage of at work. Think about what boundary was crossed that made you uncomfortable. Were you asked to work late? To miss a family event? To do work well below your skill level?

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