How to stop yourself from being a people pleaser

Are you sick and tired of going above and beyond to please people but still feeling empty and unfulfilled? It’s time to recover your authenticity and escape the people-pleasing trap. This article will discuss doable strategies to assist you in giving up trying to satisfy others and beginning to live a better, more authentic life.
1. Be true to yourself
Start by appreciating your authentic self.Avoid the urge to do things solely to please others. Remember, your happiness matters too. For example, if a friend suggests plans that don’t align with your interests, kindly propose an alternative that brings you joy.
2. Set healthy boundaries
Learn the art of saying “no” when necessary. Setting boundaries is crucial for maintaining your well-being. Imagine a colleague asks you to take on an extra project outside your scope. Politely decline and explain your current workload. This helps establish clear boundaries without sacrificing your time and sanity.

3. Learn to be assertive
Being assertive is not about being aggressive but expressing your thoughts and feelings confidently. Practice standing up for yourself, like calmly addressing a situation where your needs are being overlooked. For instance, if a family member insists on your attendance at an event, kindly communicate your reasons for declining.
4. Recognize your choices and prioritize
Realize that you have the power to make choices. Identify your priorities and focus on what truly matters to you. If torn between attending multiple events, assess which aligns with your values and commitments, and graciously decline the others.

5. Start small with achievable goals
Breaking habits takes time, so start small. Set achievable goals, like expressing your preferences in low-stakes situations. Gradually build up to more significant challenges, such as declining invitations that don’t align with your priorities.
6. Give yourself time and celebrate progress
Be patient with yourself. Progress may be gradual, but every step counts. Celebrate your victories, no matter how small. Whether it’s successfully saying “no” or asserting yourself in a conversation, acknowledge the positive changes you are making.
7. Detach from others’ opinions
Free yourself from the weight of others’ opinions. Remember, you can’t please everyone, and that’s okay. If someone disapproves of your choices, it’s their perspective, not a reflection of your worth. Focus on being true to yourself.