Are you kind to everyone you meet? Would people describe you as big-hearted? That is not equivalent to being a people pleaser. Do you sometimes accommodate others even though you’d rather not? That still might not be enough to classify you as a people pleaser.
No, a people pleaser is someone who does not have the luxury of choice. It becomes a lifestyle. People-pleasing becomes compulsive. People pleasers say yes to everything and everyone because they are incapable of saying no.
Everyone wants to feel safe, accepted and loved. It’s written in our DNA because humans are social creatures. We form communities, and we always have, so we have evolved to seek acceptance from others. Unfortunately, people pleasers figure out that the most effective way to find acceptance is to allow someone else’s wants, wishes, and desires to precede their own. It’s fine at first because it’s working.
We experience less conflict, so everything must be great, right? The only problem is that external conflict dissipates while internal conflict builds.
It goes on too long. At some point, you’re known as someone who says yes to everything and trying to redraw your boundaries is stressful. You feel guilty about every “no” you say and worry about upsetting or disappointing people. Sometimes, you have to choose between yourself and everything else.
People-pleasing is denying yourself and your needs to accommodate everyone else’s. You’re a nice person, but you’re hurting yourself in a bid to serve others. There’s a good chance you’re stressed out, exhausted, and overworked. This might take a toll on your health, both mental and physical. You’re running out of time and energy and approaching a breaking point.
You can help others without harming yourself.
You Come First
Your needs should always be met first. If you do it the other way around, you will never have the time or energy to address your needs. It’s okay to make yourself a priority. If someone requests you, you can explain that you have some things to do for yourself right now. It’s all about setting and enforcing limits, thus prioritising yourself. You have to recharge your batteries.
Have a Schedule
Think of your time like you do your finances. Just as you sit down and create a budget, you can create a schedule of your time. What time do you need for yourself? What time do you need for tasks, errands, and responsibilities, and what is left over? When someone asks for your help, you can consult your schedule.
Just as you do with time, you can also budget energy. Do you have the power to undertake this request? Don’t overwork yourself just because you feel bad.
Delay your agreement
Don’t feel compelled to agree to something or someone immediately. A typical people-pleasing response is to decide to realise later that it’s impossible immediately. Giving yourself time and space to check your schedule gives you room to consider whether you want to or can help out.
Just Say No
While some say sorry is the most complex word, no is often just as tricky. At least, it is where people-pleasers are concerned. When you say no, do not feel as though you have to offer a justification. There is no need to provide an explanation or an excuse. Learning to say “No, I can’t do that” is an excellent way for people-pleasers to reestablish their boundaries.
If that sounds like the scariest thing you have ever heard, then you can practice with explanations and work up to a flat no. Remember, the more of an explanation you offer, the more accessible others will find it to talk you into it. If you must explain, be as vague as possible to give yourself space.
Navigating Social Expectations
People pleasing often stems from a fear of rejection or a desire to maintain harmonious relationships. It can be challenging to break free from this pattern, especially when societal norms and expectations reinforce the idea that being agreeable and accommodating is virtuous. However, it’s crucial to recognize that constantly putting others before yourself can lead to feelings of resentment, dissatisfaction, and even burnout.
Understanding the Root Causes
To address people pleasing, it’s essential to explore the underlying reasons behind this behavior. Often, it can be traced back to childhood experiences, where individuals may have learned that their worthiness of love and acceptance is contingent upon meeting others’ needs and expectations. Breaking free from these deeply ingrained patterns requires self-reflection and a willingness to challenge long-held beliefs.
Building Authentic Connections
One common misconception among people pleasers is that saying no or asserting boundaries will result in the loss of relationships or disapproval from others. However, in reality, healthy and genuine connections are built on mutual respect and understanding. By expressing your true thoughts, needs, and limitations, you invite others to know and appreciate the authentic you. Those who truly value and care about you will understand and respect your boundaries.
Practicing Self-Compassion
Overcoming people-pleasing tendencies involves cultivating self-compassion. It’s important to recognize that your worthiness as an individual is not dependent on how much you do for others. Embrace the understanding that self-care is not selfish but an essential aspect of overall well-being. Prioritizing your own needs allows you to show up more authentically and compassionately for others in the long run.
Assertiveness and Effective Communication
Developing assertiveness skills is fundamental in breaking the cycle of people pleasing. It involves expressing your thoughts, feelings, and boundaries in a clear and respectful manner. Practice using “I” statements to communicate your needs effectively. For example, instead of saying, “You always make me feel obligated to help,” try saying, “I feel overwhelmed when I take on too many tasks. I need to prioritize my own well-being.” By using assertive communication, you assert your rights while maintaining respect for others.
Embracing Imperfection
Perfectionism often goes hand in hand with people pleasing. The fear of making mistakes or disappointing others can drive individuals to go above and beyond their capabilities. Embracing imperfection and acknowledging that making mistakes is a natural part of being human can liberate you from the need for constant approval. Remember, true growth and learning come from accepting and embracing your flaws and allowing others to do the same.
Seeking Support
Changing deeply ingrained patterns of behavior can be challenging, and seeking support from trusted friends, family, or professionals can be immensely helpful. Consider confiding in someone who understands your struggles and can provide guidance and encouragement along your journey toward self-empowerment and authentic living.
In conclusion, people pleasing may initially appear as an admirable trait, but it can take a toll on your well-being and hinder personal growth. By prioritizing your own needs, setting boundaries, practicing self-compassion, and embracing authentic communication, you can break free from the compulsion to please others. Remember, you are deserving of love and acceptance for who you are, not just for what you do for others.
