Healthcare is all about giving. You’re there for your patients, your team, and sometimes even strangers when they need it most. But who’s there for you when feel you stretched thin?
It’s easy to feel like you’re supposed to be constantly available. Taking on extra shifts, answering emails after hours, and saying “yes” to last-minute favors have almost become badges of honor. But what if it’s costing you more than you think?
The Challenge of Boundaries in Healthcare
Have you ever had that feeling when you’re finally off the clock, but your phone just won’t stay silent? Or maybe you’re exhausted from a long week, and yet you’re signing up for extra shifts because it feels wrong not to help out.
If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. In healthcare, these kinds of demands are often unspoken expectations. But without boundaries, burnout isn’t far behind. And let’s be honest: burnt-out you isn’t the best version of you—for your patients or for your own life and family.
Shifting Your Mindset on Boundaries
Setting boundaries isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. Boundaries aren’t barriers; they’re a way to decide what’s truly important to focus on and let go of what isn’t, so you can keep giving sustainably. When you know where your limits are, you can serve at your best without running dry.
How to Set and Keep Your Boundaries
- Start with Small, Clear No’s
Saying “no” doesn’t have to be dramatic. Start with small boundaries, like declining non-urgent calls after hours or setting a cutoff time for work emails. You can keep it simple and professional: “I won’t be able to respond to non-urgent requests after 7 PM.” - Use Your Schedule as a Boundary Tool
Your schedule is one of your most powerful boundary allies. Block off personal time on your calendar—yes, even if you have to make it a meeting with yourself! Prioritizing that time is a way to recharge so you can come back to work focused and energized. - Communicate Openly and Often
Talk to your team, your supervisor, or anyone who might expect your availability. Being clear about your boundaries (and reinforcing them when needed) helps others respect your time. Remember, setting a boundary once isn’t enough; reinforcing it regularly builds respect and understanding. - Let Go of Guilt
You can be compassionate without sacrificing yourself. Setting boundaries doesn’t mean you’re not committed; it means you’re committed to showing up as your best self. This mindset is essential for long-term success in healthcare.
The Difference Boundaries Can Make
Imagine finishing your shift and actually being able to leave work at work. Or starting your day feeling rested instead of running on fumes. Boundaries help you build a sustainable career, showing up for your patients and colleagues fully engaged and present.
Closing
Boundary-setting is a skill, and like any skill, it gets easier with practice. If you’re curious about taking this further, I’m hosting a free webinar on boundary-setting specifically for healthcare professionals, where we’ll dive deeper into strategies and answer your questions. You can also book a complimentary consultation to explore coaching support that helps you set boundaries and regain balance in your life.
What’s one small boundary you’ve set (or would like to set) that’s helped you feel more balanced at work or home?
Reminder: as part of the benefits offered at Logan Health, employees get free coaching sessions. You can book a coaching session here.
P.P.S. Liked what you read? Join my email list, where I dive deeper into these concepts and teach you HOW to put them into practice in your everyday life. And don’t forget to follow me on Instagram (@christineseager_) or Facebook (@seager.christine), where I share both teaching moments and real-life examples of this work in action.