We need to have a discussion on professional boundaries in these digital spaces. Some things shouldn’t be sent via DMs. Some questions shouldn’t be asked and please don’t leave a comment on someone’s page saying “check your DMs I send you a message”.

If you don’t engage with someone on a daily basis, you shouldn’t be asking them personal questions or saying “if you don’t mind me asking”....I’m really trying to help y’all out

Are you interesting in seeking mentorship from this person? Send a professional email, but don’t expect it’ll be an immediate yes. People are busy, but everyone doesn’t have the ability/skills to mentor you in the area you need too.

Speaking of mentorship...please don’t do this ~> follow someone, like all of their pics, then slide in their DMs to send a dissertation asking if they can mentor you. <~ all within 5 minutes of following them.

And the infamous “pick your brain” statements. Here’s what you do.
1. Research them to see if they offer coaching, consultation or digital courses in this area.
2. Pay for that service or their time.
Remember, everyone isn’t good at teaching you what they know or do too.

For those of you struggling with how to manage these requests, reassess your own boundaries and guilt. You can remove access in small ways like creating an email w/ resources to send to those asking for mentorship when you’re not available or not interested in the candidate.

Another way to create some boundaries is removing FB messenger from your phone, installing auto-replies on IG, limiting who can comment on your stories, ensuring your offers/links are clear and working on your sites, a visible email, and always being kind to others.

Here’s a sample email of how I respond to requests “thank you for reaching out & I’m excited you’re starting _______. Unfortunately, I am at my capacity, but here’s a Youtube video I have and a resource site that’ll be helpful. Best wishes on your journey.”

Always remember, when you say YES to people, places, & opportunities - You’re saying NO to something else which could be you spending more time w/ yourself and loved ones. Saying NO doesn’t make you a bad person.