At home, work, school, or somewhere in between, setting clear boundaries actually strengthens ties. Why? People respect those who respect themselves. Don’t let anyone regularly:
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Distract you. The internet’s bad enough.
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Sap your motivation. The urge to set and work toward your goals is what makes your life meaningful.
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Make promises on your behalf or alter your plans—intentional or not. As a response-able individual, only you can make commitments.
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Commandeer your resources (without something in return). Your team, tools, and goodwill multiply your ability to get things done.
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Stall your momentum. The easiest way to support you is to not stand in your way.
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Drain your energy. The state of mind where you're at your best can only be restored with eight hours of good sleep, which happens (at best) once a day.
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Tarnish your reputation. It takes lots to build and far less to damage.
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Dishonor themselves. If someone appears to be struggling such as making mistakes or missing deadlines, don’t assume:
• That they realize it—tell them.
• Or if they do, that they’re fixing it—offer to help.
• Or if they are, that it’s working—brainstorm other solutions. -
Waste your time. You’ll never get more or know how much you have left.