For a long time, I never thought I was a people-pleaser.
I just thought I was being kind. The one people could rely on. And thinking that felt good, because if we’re honest, who doesn’t want to be the one people know they can turn to when they need help?

Externally my behaviour suggested I was: Easygoing. Helpful. Laid Back.

Internally I felt: Mentally and Physically Exhausted. Wired. Resentful (but guilty for feeling that way), Anxious, Uncertain. Doubting. Self-conscious. On Edge…like I was stuck in hyper vigilance, on the look out for who, what, where and when I’d be needed and always feeling responsible for making sure everyone else felt ok.

For most of my life, I carried an inflated sense of responsibility for others and found myself trapped in a cycle of people-pleasing. I wasn’t aware of it at the time, but it was as if my self-worth hinged on my ability to cater to everyone else’s needs and gain their approval. I was starting to feel resentful. I knew something had to change.