ZORA Check-In

Checking In: Blocking Is Self-Care

Photo illustration; Image source: David M. Benett/Dave Benett/Getty Images

“This is your world. You are in full control of who is allowed to experience it with you.” —Chidera Eggerue, The Slumflower

Here’s a hard truth ZORA fam: Sometimes saying “no” isn’t enough to set and maintain a boundary. Sometimes you have to cut people off completely to retain your peace of mind.

We’ve all been there: an ex who keeps calling, a boss who sends work emails (or texts!) on the weekends, a friend or family member who always needs a favor. Here’s my advice to you: Block them. Put your phone on “Do Not Disturb” when you don’t want to be disturbed, set up an away message on your email, and send other emails to spam. Take back control of your time.

I know it sounds harsh, and that might be because we’re afraid to hurt people’s feelings or because we’ve been taught not to be “selfish.” I’m here to remind you that your feelings (and your time) matter, too, and there’s nothing selfish about taking care of yourself.

Let me know in the comments how you feel after you’ve firmly set a boundary. #ZORACheckIn