UNBLURRING BOUNDARIES A Sklar Wilton Associates Initiative January
UNBLURRING BOUNDARIES A Sklar Wilton & Associates Initiative January 2021
TODAY’S DISCUSSION WHAT’S HAPPENING WHAT WE CAN DO YOUR ROADMAP
UNCERTAINTY LACK OF CONTROL
WE PREDICTABILITY
LACK OF CONTROL = FEAR
THE VIRTUAL OFFICE HAS BECOME THE PRIMARY OFFICE The needs and functions of the real world have transformed. We have kept pace and continue to innovate and improvise.
THE CHALLENGE CONTINUES As we continue down this path, now is a good time to reflect and make some changes to start / continue to build resiliency and prevent burnout.
OUR CURRENT SITUATION Working from home has presented new communication & scheduling challenges. Our flexible work environment has now become even more flexible. Blurred boundaries between our work and home lives can negatively impact our mental wellness & resilience.
OUR CURRENT SITUATION New methods of communication have resulted in requests coming in new formats and all times of the day. Visual cues within the office are no longer available. Even requests have been blurry!
QUICK POLL How well do you feel you are managing your blurred boundaries? Even talking about blurred boundaries stresses me out I currently have not proactively done anything to help with blurred boundaries I have tried some strategies but have felt pressure to not follow through on the boundaries I set I am good but I could be better at setting boundaries All is great. I have this under control
EFFICIENT & CLEAR COMMUNICATION Ensure that communications & requests use the agreed upon methods: • • Email Group Channels Group Chats Phone Calls or Text Be clear that you don’t expect to send or receive replies during non-work hours.
WHY IS THIS IMPORTANT? Clearly identifying our needs is critical to maintaining resiliency and healthy stress levels while working.
UNBLUR YOUR OWN BOUNDARIES Set up your calendar and block off work and personal time. Use calendars & group channels to confirm status • Have you checked someone’s status on their calendar & group tools? • Are they in a meeting? • Are they presenting? Look for new visual cues • If the person is in a meeting, would you go into the boardroom to interrupt them? • What is the new ‘leaving the building’ cue? Can it wait?
BUILDING UNDERSTANDING & EMPATHY Through communication and awareness, we can understand our needs and the “why. ” • Why do I have 2 hours blocked for lunch? • How do these breaks impact start and end work times? • What challenges are my teammates currently facing, both personal and professional? Just ask!
LET’S BUILD SOME EMPATHY How well do you feel you are managing your blurred boundaries? What are your work / life boundaries? What barriers are stopping you from setting boundaries? What is your plan to help you accomplish setting your boundaries?
NEXT STEPS Help Myself: • Self-reflect: What is working and not working for me? • Protect time you need protected in all of your calendars. • Ongoing: Look ahead a week or two in your calendar to ensure the time you need is built in.
NEXT STEPS Help Each Other: • In your next team status meetings: Continue the discussion on ways of working so you are better equipped to help each other. • In your next 1: 1 with your manager, do the same sharing. • Give each other feedback when something isn’t working.
OTHER THINGS WE CAN DO • Talk, talk! • Take a day off • Schedule breaks and moments of joy • Get creative with meetings • Use virtual tools to encourage connection – Chat – Set up support and interest groups
IF YOU OR A LOVED ONE ARE STRUGGLING • Talk with your manager • Use your Employee Assistance Program (EAP) • Most importantly, if you or someone you know is facing an imminent mental health crisis, call 911. • If the issue is not life-threatening and emotional support would help, call Crisis Services Canada at 1 -833 -4566 (toll-free) or text them at 45645. • If it's kids: https: //kidshelpphone. ca/, 1 -800 -668 -6868 for 24/7 counsellors.
Fuel the Headway movement Join the Linked. In group now Headway for Healthy Minds at Work https: //www. linkedin. com/groups/8768946/ Visit www. sklarwilton. com/headway for more information and resources
HARMONY IS: BEING RESPECTFUL OF BOUNDARIES Our home and work lives are mingling, let’s help each other by building and respecting each others’ boundaries.
THANK YOU. ANY QUESTIONS?
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