I am a people pleaser in recovery. 

I guess this behavioral pattern was implanted into my brain back in childhood. Like many girls, I was brought up as a good person who helps others, knows how to put herself in someone else’s shoes, and makes sure she doesn’t hurt anyone’s feelings. 

And what about her feelings? Hmmm…

I used to serve as a “free resource” for many people. They didn’t even have to ask me. I was there for them because that was the only right thing to do, and they would like me for sure. Or so I believed at the time. 

The thought of someone not liking me was scary 😱 

The awakening would only come when I realized that there was no reciprocation of my care, attention, and support from them. I would give and give and give only to feel drained and frustrated, turning into a dried-up empty well. 

People usually treat us the way we allow them, don’t you agree? 

Continue reading “You Are Not Pizza or Confessions of a People Pleaser” →