Setting boundaries around your time
The next time you’re asked to take on work you don’t have capacity for, here are a few phrases you can use to set a boundary, in a way that focuses on mutual objectives.
This is important. Can we schedule a time to discuss it further?
I can look into this after I complete my current assignments. Is that OK?
Could we prioritize this against my other tasks, to see what can be rescheduled?
I have an important deadline coming up, so I’ll be available after DATE.
To ensure I meet all the expectations of me and my time, could you clarify the priority of this task?
I want to deliver quality results. Can we discuss a realistic timeline for this?
I’m unable to attend the meeting, but I can provide my input via email. Does that work?
Notice how none of these framings come out and say “I can’t / won’t do that,” or “I don’t have time for that” or “That’s not my job,” all phrases that will get you labeled pretty quickly as someone who is not a team player.
The framing of these statements communicates that you value your time while also acknowledging their needs.
