Foundation Process 4

Boundary Setting & Maintenance

Overview

A process for articulating, negotiating, and respecting boundaries—both personal and organisational.

Purpose

To prevent over‑identification, emotional labour, and blurred expectations while enabling sustainable collaboration.

Steps

1. Identify the boundary
   What is the limit you need to protect?
2. State it clearly and respectfully
   Use direct, non‑apologetic language.
3. Explain the rationale (optional)
   Provide context without over‑justifying.
4. Negotiate if needed
   Explore alternatives that respect both sides.
5. Maintain the boundary consistently
   Reinforce calmly when tested.

Indicators of Good Practice

• Boundaries are clear, predictable, and respected
• People feel safe to say “no”
• Expectations are explicit

Common Failure Modes

• Setting boundaries only after burnout
• Being vague or indirect
• Treating boundaries as barriers

When to Use

• When workload, emotional load, or expectations become unsustainable
• When roles or responsibilities blur
• When conflict escalates due to unclear limits

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