In higher education, "yes" is often treated as the default currency. We say yes to joining another committee, yes to taking on an extra advisee, yes to covering a colleague's seminar, and yes to a late-night research request. Because academia is largely driven by passion, mission-driven work, and a deeply collaborative culture, it can feel as though setting a boundary is synonymous with a lack of commitment. For higher education professionals and job seekers alike, mastering the art of strategic refusal is essential to preventing burnout and sustaining a meaningful career. Do you feel you're good at setting boundaries?
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Sandra Herranen
Membership & Operations Coordinator
Higher Education Recruitment Consortium
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