“I’m a People-Pleaser”

Here is another thought box:

"I am a people-pleaser."

Some thoughts that might float around in this one are:

"I can't say no!"

"I never set boundaries."

"I am going to hurt their feelings if I say no."

"I care too much about what others think about me."

"I never prioritize myself."

"I wish I had said/done xyz..." (around and around)

________

While it's good to recognize when we aren't honoring ourselves and when we need to set boundaries, using this label can feed these thoughts/feelings and cause us unnecessary pain and guilt. It’s ok to care about other people, put their needs first, and make sacrifices.

________

A new box to try out might be something like:

"I care about others and I care about myself."

Some new thoughts in this box might be:

"I enjoy serving others."

“I am good at discerning when another person’s needs are more urgent than mine.”

"I like to say 'yes' when it works for me."

"I care about other people and their thoughts/feelings."

"I am a social person."

"I like to create peace and help people get along."

"I am willing to personally sacrifice to help others."

"I can put myself first sometimes, too."

"My needs matter."

"I can say 'no' when I need/want to."

"It's ok if not everyone likes me."