In a recent exercise on boundaries, I gained a new insight about the way we react to requests at work.
Some people have an automatic inclination to say “yes” to others, trying to be helpful and make things happen. However, overcommitting can lead to stress, overwhelm, and eventually the realization that we’ve taken on more than we can handle.
On the other hand, some people naturally respond with a “no” first, setting clear boundaries. While this can seem abrupt, it often means that they are realistic about their capacity and avoid overextending themselves. Over time, they are typically more reliable, keeping up with the work they’ve committed to.
These differences are often overlooked, but they are essential to understanding how we function in the workplace.
Some of us may need to learn when to say “no” to protect our time, while others might benefit from recognizing the value of flexibility. By understanding each other’s natural responses, we can create a more supportive and effective work environment.
What’s your natural response to requests? Do you tend to say “yes” or “no” first? Recognizing this can help you and your team work more harmoniously.
Read more: Is It Too Late to Reset Boundaries at Work?
