How do you incorporate self-care and boundary-setting in your approach to your job?

"For the past eight years, I have taught high school social studies. The majority of my students face academic and behavioral obstacles, so I have to cater my lessons to accommodate their needs. This process can be emotionally and mentally challenging because I care deeply about the success of all of my students. However, in order to be an effective instructor, I must establish limits to avoid getting too personally involved in their lives. I decided to open my office for students to visit during specified times each week. These times were dedicated to the student sharing anything they wanted to. As a result, they feel comfortable approaching me to ask for help academically or to share personal struggles; they also respect the boundaries I have communicated and keep these discussions to posted office hours. This strategy has had positive effects on my productivity as well as student behavior and academic performance."

"I work as a nurse at the largest hospital system in my county. Every day, I assist patients who are suffering from any number of illnesses, which can leave them feeling vulnerable, depressed, scared, and sometimes angry. I have to ensure I can face these situations professionally, so I always prepare myself. While I display empathy and compassion in all of my work, I also establish professional distance between myself and all of my patients. Not getting too close allows me to focus on doing my job properly and deliver a service that contributes to my patients' mental and physical well-being."

Show the interviewer how you take active steps to prioritize your personal well-being. Then, illustrate how these actions improve your professional focus and productivity.