Thread by @DrMStiegler

On boundaries and screwing them up: [thread, 1/10]

"Set boundaries" they say. Sounds like great advice.

But for a long time, I had this all wrong.

If you know me, you already know I learned the hard way.

I hope this helps other #WomenInMedicine and #medtwitter

2/
Here's how I would approach this important career skill if I knew then what I know now:

🌀 Importance🌀
Recognize that setting boundaries is a career skill. Something you learn to do.

There's a way to be effective and strategic, and many ways to mess it up.

3/
🌀Careful consideration🌀
It's important to know which boundaries would actually help.

This takes deep thought and understanding about your work environment and your personal life.

Obviously, you have to still exist and contribute in a system that has established culture.

4/
🌀Impact 🌀
So, you've got to know what would make the biggest difference for you. What would be best for you, and how, and why?

And without jeopardizing relationships.

Or at least, with eyes open about the friction that's coming, and the long term potential outcomes.

5/
🌀Implementation🌀

What if it's a dramatic change? (It probably is!)

If you're starting fresh at a new place, you don't have to 'change' people's expectations.

If not, how do you actually implement these new boundaries? A huge announcement? Silently? Something else.

6/
🌀Maintenance🌀

And you know those little, invisible, self-sabotaging things we all do...

the ones that erode our stated boundaries and make them meaningless?

I didn't realize how much I was doing this. Most people don't.

So, how to avoid, identify, and repair those?

7/ These are the considerations that mentors never seem to address.

🎉And yet, 'set boundaries’ is advice that's thrown around and celebrated like confetti.

When done right, boundaries DO make an enormous difference.

8/ 👉🏻Effective boundaries give you more balance.

Greater autonomy.

Less guilt (you know you have some).

More satisfaction, harmony, happiness. 💕

9/ So these are things I'd work hard to get right if I were just starting out.

I'd have had that autonomy and harmony sooner.

I'm always learning, and always teaching what I've learned so far.

This one is an attendee favorite at TransforMD.

But...

10/
Boundaries aren't the only career skill that make a huge difference.

There are several more that are commonly listed in career advice, but equally more complicated to get right.

Here's more:
bit.ly/2YBS1Al

#WomenInMedicine #medtwitter #sheMD