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How to Set Healthy Work Boundaries

As technology changes our relationship to the office, we need to change how we take breaks from work. That means using the flexibility of our technology to treat ourselves well. 
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What’s the Latest Development?

The chief operating officer of Facebook, Sheryl Sandberg, is noted for leaving the office at 5:30, setting aside time to play with her children. But not everyone has the autonomy that comes with commanding the world’s most well-known company. So here are a few ways that you and I can set healthy boundaries around our working lives, using new technology to our benefit rather than at our bereavement. First, analyze how you spend your time. Consider using the app RescueTime to help you block your time throughout the day and motivate you to avoid distraction.  

What’s the Big Idea?

As technology changes our relationship to the office, we need to change how we take breaks from work. For many, shutting down for twelve hours overnight may no longer be an option, but taking short breaks is essential. Utilize the flexibility of a smartphone to take breaks during the day, picking up an important email after you recharge your batteries with a mid-afternoon walk. And since employers are increasingly flexible about giving their employees some work-at-home days, using the in-between moments to do a load of laundry or make a grocery run can free up time later in the evening. 

Photo credit: Shutterstock.com

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