Checklist: Setting boundaries for you and your team

I’ve clearly defined my working hours - and stick to them most of the time

I avoid replying to messages outside of hours unless it’s urgent

I protect time in my calendar for my work - not just meetings

I take regular breaks - and log off on time most days

I regularly check in with myself: Am I working sustainably?

I’ve clearly communicated what my role does - and doesn’t - involve

I’ve had open conversations with my manager about capacity and support

I’m comfortable saying “no” or negotiating timelines when needed

I don’t pick up tasks that others in my team could own

I model the kind of boundaries I want my team to feel confident setting

Each team member knows their core responsibilities and what’s realistic

I’ve encouraged them to block “no meetings” time in their calendars

I’ve set expectations around response times and availability

I don’t expect replies outside working hours - and I’ve made that clear

I regularly ask: “Is this realistic?”, “Do you have enough capacity?”

We’ve had open conversations about workload and pressure

I check in regularly - not to chase, but to support

I don’t overload the team with unnecessary meetings

I encourage breaks, holidays and switching off - and lead by example

I’ve made it clear which requests need to come through me - and which can go direct to team members

I’ve shared typical realistic timelines with stakeholders for work and projects

People across the business know who to go to for different types of queries

I’ve agreed expectations with other teams around communication (e.g. response times, preferred methods)

I flag risks or delays early - not just when things go wrong

I’ve built confidence in pushing back when boundaries are tested