Confident Women Use This Empathetic 2-Word Phrase When Talking About Boundaries at Work

Boundaries are a critical part of thriving in any work environment. How do confident women establish these boundaries while maintaining professionalism? Two words: “I will!”

This declaration communicates intention — and protects you simultaneously. What does it look like in practice? Here are four examples.

1. “I will be online 9-5.” vs. “I can’t respond after 5 p.m.”

Part of establishing boundaries means making it clear when you will and won’t be available, whether in-person or online. Saying you can’t respond after a certain time, while important, not only has a more negative connotation but also makes you sound less confident. Instead, let your colleagues know when you WILL be available. You’re sending the same message, but you’re communicating it in a more forceful and positive way. 

2. “I will not be talking about this subject at work.” vs. “Don’t say that.” 

Here, you’re putting the onus on yourself — while simultaneously conveying authority. When you say “Don’t say that,” people might wonder who you are to tell them what they can and can’t say in the office. But when you shut down a topic by saying that you won’t be chiming in, you’re conveying the fact that it’s inappropriate to discuss the subject while also avoiding conflict.

3. “I will do X, Y and Z.” vs. “I can’t do A, B and C.”

This, again, gives your words a more positive connotation. You’re taking charge and forcefully declaring what you’re willing and able to do, rather than focusing on the negative — the things you cannot and/or will not be doing. 

4. “I will check in.” vs. “I don’t have time until…”

This phrase is ideal for contexts in which you’re worried that you might be bombarded with questions, comments or feedback. If you’re leading a project, for example, you might be facing constant (and sometimes unnecessary) input from team members and simply don’t have the time or patience. When you let the team know that you will check-in, particularly at a specific time, then you’ll reassure your colleagues that their questions won’t go unanswered and you will make yourself available.

Sure, these phrases may not sound all that different from one another, but wording is key — and it will help you come across as more confident and capable.

About the Career Expert:

Laura Berlinsky-Schine is a freelance writer and editor based in Brooklyn with her demigod/lab mix Hercules. She specializes in education, technology and career development. She also writes satire and humor, which has appeared in Slackjaw, Points in Case, Little Old Lady Comedy, Jane Austen’s Wastebasket and The Haven.