The topic of “how to achieve work-life balance” is a popular one. In fact, countless books and articles have been dedicated to the subject over the years. But while establishing such balance is certainly worth striving for, truly attaining it can be challenging at best.

A recent article from The Muse points to something that may be even more useful: creating boundaries. As writer Lauren Laitin explains, “when you learn to set boundaries based on your various priorities and obligations, you’ll feel in control and at liberty to make decisions that work for you.”

This can be particularly helpful for cancer survivors who are returning to work following treatment, many of whom are concerned that their supervisor or coworkers will think they’re no longer as capable on the job as they once were. As a result, these individuals often feel the need to prove themselves by taking on more projects or working longer hours — and risk overextending themselves in the process.

If this is something you’re challenged by, try setting boundaries based on a given day’s needs, then communicate those boundaries to others. Doing so can go a long way toward helping you establish the kind of life you want.

For the full Muse article, click here.

For tips on how to set professional boundaries, click here.