A co-worker, who I generally like, would stop at my desk once daily to chat for a few minutes. Recently, they have been dropping by more frequently and it is beginning to disrupt my work. How can I let them know that we need to put a limit to our chatting? —Serena
Johnny C. Taylor, Jr.: I think we’ve all been in your shoes. It can be a good thing to take a break and catch up with a co-worker, but if not held in check, those conversations can become disruptive and even stressful. In this case, there can be too much of a good thing. I know it can feel awkward or rude to address it, especially at first, but set the boundaries now. Your time is valuable, and you are the only one who can protect it.
