Bold lines, bright paths: Four leaders redefine boundaries at work

Technology was once promised to be a great liberator—the freedom to work from anywhere! But with technology now intertwining our work and life, setting boundaries often becomes challenging, leading to work-life imbalance and stress. 

The stats are telling: A staggering 57% report negative effects of work-related stress associated with burnout, according to the Work in America survey. Additional factors come into play for women, as pointed out in the  Women in the Workplace 2023 report. Microaggressions and the “broken rung” phenomenon (a broken step on the corporate ladder that obstructs women’s upward mobility) compound stressors, such as work-family conflict, housework demands, and denial of promotions, leading to frustration and burnout.

Freshworks Women 360, an internal employee resource group focused on advancing professional development and boosting leadership visibility for women, recently held a leadership panel in North America featuring a diverse and influential cohort: Johanna Jackman (chief people officer, Freshworks), Meg Hall (CEO, Segment X), Susan Beal (chief customer officer, Blue Yonder), and Kate Bailey (founder, TARRA). Together, they shared stories of thriving as women executives in today’s world.

Payal Patel, senior director of solution engineering at Freshworks, and several female colleagues launched Freshworks Women 360 five years ago to bridge gender disparity. Early in her career, Patel realized she was “the only woman in a sea of men.” When she got to Freshworks, she decided to do something about it. 

What started as a networking event has evolved into a thriving women’s employee resource group with a mission to inspire, empower, and nurture. The leadership team organizes networking and social events, sponsors mentorship programs, engages in community service, and increases the visibility of women’s achievements at Freshworks.

Drawing from their unique experiences, the leaders underscore fearlessness, embrace strengths, and align decisions with personal values to achieve work-life balance.

Read also: Inspiration and empowerment come alive with Freshworks Women 360

Here are some key takeaways from the Freshworks North America Women 360 panel:

• See setting boundaries as an intentional and positive practice for a healthier work-life balance.

• Identify and fearlessly safeguard your non-negotiable priorities in life.

• Counter false narratives through open conversations to overcome self-doubt.

• Embrace moments of rest to prepare yourself for breakthroughs or career-defining “slingshot” moments in your career.

• Ensure your professional choices align with your core values to feel fulfilled at work.

“Boundaries are about being intentional about what sustains and allows me to be present. A lot of that is the ability to take care of oneself first and foremost. You cannot give to anyone else without taking care of yourself first. Compassion must start with oneself first.”

— Johanna Jackman (CPO, Freshworks)

“When it comes to boundaries, even if the conversation is a little bit awkward, you can reframe it as 'These are the standards that I want to set for my life and my workplace.'

Just as you wouldn't want to waste your time dating somebody who doesn't share your vision or morals, you don't want to waste time in friendships or workplaces where they aren't in alignment with who you are and the life you want to have.”

— Meg Hall (CEO, Segment X)

“The question is about to whom you give power. Is the power in the hands of those encroaching on your boundaries, or do you possess the power to set those boundaries yourself? I prioritize what I need to feel secure, safe, and healthy—three essential things to show up for my team, members, and investors.”

— Kate Bailey (founder, TARRA)

“People often think of boundary conversations as negative—reframe them as a positive! Boundaries are about understanding the needs and goals for each relationship—with colleagues, customers, friends, and even family. Boundaries allow you to focus on what you prioritize.”

— Susan Beal (CCO, Blue Yonder)

Interested in working with folks who have discovered their potential, passion, and purpose at work? Look no further! Freshworks is hiring.