Select Your WhatsApp Contact and Do Not Tolerate Toxic Relationships

Prof Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies

In today’s digital age, our phones are an extension of our social lives. WhatsApp, in particular, has become a primary means of communication for many of us. With the ease of adding contacts and joining groups, it’s easy to accumulate a large network of acquaintances and friends. However, this convenience can also lead to unwanted stress and anxiety if we’re not mindful of the company we keep.

Having toxic relationships in your WhatsApp contacts can be draining, whether it’s someone who constantly complains, goggles, or makes you feel bad about yourself. It’s essential to recognize that you have the power to curate your online space and remove anyone who brings negativity into your life.

Take a moment to scroll through your WhatsApp contacts and assess the relationships in your life. Ask yourself: Are there people who consistently make you feel bad about yourself? Are there conversations that leave you feeling drained or anxious? It’s okay to acknowledge that these relationships are not serving you and take steps to distance yourself.

Removing toxic contacts doesn’t mean you’re being rude or unkind; it means you’re prioritizing your own well-being. You don’t have to engage with people who bring you down or make you feel like you’re walking on eggshells. By selecting the company you keep, you’re sending a message that you value your mental health and deserve to be surrounded by positivity.

In conclusion, your WhatsApp contacts should be a reflection of the relationships you want to nurture in your life. Don’t be afraid to prune your contacts and create a space that uplifts and supports you. Remember, you have the power to choose who you want to communicate with, and it’s okay to prioritize your own happiness. You can tolerate shorter SMS from more persons but not the long WhatsApp messages, so block contacts when necessary especially if you’re above fifty years of age.

The author Prof. Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies is a Nigerian linguist, educationist, and Communication expert.
Prof. Adesanya-Davies is a prolific writer, with several publications to her credit, including books and journal articles on linguistics, education, and politics.

Prof. Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies is a professor of Applied Linguistics and Communication Arts, with a strong academic background, holding a B.A. in English and Yoruba, an M.A. in English Language, PGDE and a Ph.D. in Linguistics and Communications and Clinical Linguistics and Psychology.

Academic and Professional Background:

• Former Director of the Centre for Vocational Skills, Entrepreneurial and General Studies, General Studies at Rivers State University of Education, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.
• Former Dean of Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, Regent University of Science and Technology, Accra, Ghana.
• Member of several professional organizations, including the British Association for Applied Linguistics and the Linguistics Association of Nigeria.

To mention but a few, her Awards and Recognition include:

• UN-POLAC World Peace Ambassador Award (2013)
• African Achievers Merit Award (2014)
• Nigerian Woman of the Year Award (2014)
• Nelson Mandela Life of Legendary Achievement Award (2014)
• World Ambassador for Christ Award (2017).