Setting boundaries at work is unavoidable if we want to be able to manage our energy and have a sustainable career, without the burnout.

Here are five things I learnt from setting boundaries at work:

1. People will forget.

You have to keep stating your boundary. People will forget. Your boundaries are yours to manage and maintain, as a farmer maintains their fences.

2. It will get easier.

It can take a lot of courage to say what you need. It's hardest the first time, and will gradually get easier if you keep restating it.

3. There's give and take.

Some people won't be happy when you set a boundary with them. They'll take it personally. It can help if you set your boundary in a way that also offers something.

For example: "I'm not able to travel to London for this meeting, but if you'd like the chance to practice I'd be happy to listen to a run through for you."

4. No is a complete sentence.

You've probably heard this one before. Over-explaining yourself gives the other person the opportunity to pick apart your boundary.

For example:

Me: "I can't travel to London for this meeting because I experience sensory overwhelm."

Them: "Oh it's not that bad, just travel early so you miss rush hour."

5. Be kind to yourself.

Sometimes, you won't be able to maintain your boundaries. You do what you can, and that's enough.