People pleasing is a behavior in which an individual goes out of their way to please others at the expense of their own needs and desires. People pleasers often seek validation and approval from others and may have difficulty setting boundaries or saying no. While wanting to be kind and helpful to others is a positive trait, people pleasing can become problematic when it becomes an unhealthy pattern of behavior that negatively impacts one’s own well-being. It can lead to feelings of burnout, resentment, and self-neglect, and may even lead to unhealthy relationships. It’s important for individuals to learn how to balance their desire to help others with their own needs and self-care. This can involve setting boundaries, learning to say no when necessary, and prioritizing self-care activities.
© Linda C J Turner