Career Advice - Career Growth Begins With Career Boundaries

"My new boss asks how the way I spent my weekend. I want to keep my personal life private ."

"My parents have criticized my decision to start a business. They are convinced that we will soon live in a homeless shelter ."

"My friends invited me for lunch this week and I just do not have time for another social event ."

As you begin a new venture - a job, business, promotion, transfer - you may feel you are living in a glass bubble. Friends, colleagues, family and watch closely, wondering if they have to pick up the pieces after a midlife career crisis of the accident.

that you love them, but you have to set boundaries. Life gets crowded when you live in a small bubble.

1 Draw a map of boundaries before being caught in difficult situations. If you are clear on their own needs, your line will be solid.

2 When you asked a tough question, take the opportunity to communicate the message you want to send.

P: "should not be spending more time with family": "I have a wonderful family Did I tell you my daughter is a starter on her high school basketball team and my son just won the ..."< / P>.?

3 Skip apologies and explanations unless you really need forgiveness.

Q: "Can we get together for lunch next week ?"

: "Gee, I'm so sorry, but I have all these errands to run, and my mother would visit and ..."

ouch! Let's try again:

: "I always enjoy lunch with you, but this week will not work for me Can I call you later to set the time ?"

: "I always enjoy lunch with you, but this week will not work for me Can I call you later to set the time ?"

: "Packages do not work with my schedule let's stay in touch via e-mail ."

4 Borrowing money or asking for services will erode your borders.

If your parents and you borrow $ 20,000 to purchase a home, they deserve regular updates on your financial situation.

If your colleague watch your cat for a week, she will expect the rest of the story (as well as a wonderful gift and a promise to keep the job next time ).

5 If you find yourself surrounded by people who push their limits, to take into account the consideration of its priorities with a coach, counselor or trusted friend. Your words and gestures can signal "Come in!" when the brain says, "Keep away !"

Finally, do not beat yourself up! True self-acceptance and self-confidence will deter most-border trespassers.

and sometimes you risk loosening its limits, recognizing that life in a glass of bubbles can cause unexpected help, surprises, and even prizes.