Many of us try really hard to keep others happy, but the reasons behind this can be different for each person. Two common reasons are social anxiety and low self-worth, and while they might look the same from the outside, what drives them is quite different.

Christmas often feels like a marathon of obligations. Between trying to meet everyone’s expectations and making sure no one feels left out, the joy you hoped to experience can easily get buried under stress and pressure. In this post, I’ll explore how people-pleasing shows up at Christmas, why we fall into these patterns, and what steps you can take to break free from the cycle.

Whether it’s agreeing to yet another work task, making time for that friend who only ever calls when they need something, or taking on family commitments that leave you feeling resentful and depleted, it’s exhausting. For those who have spent a lifetime putting others first, the idea of explicitly setting boundaries can make you feel sick with anxiety and like your body’s going into battle.

So, what does setting boundaries really mean? And why is it so hard, especially when you’ve been conditioned to people-please, avoid conflict, or seek approval at all costs?

If you’re feeling lost and feel like you don’t know who you are, here are 5 tips to discovering the real you and how therapy can help along the way.

Ever feel really anxious when you’re around a certain person or certain people? It’s not uncommon, when I asked this question on instagram stories 100% said yes! Here I talk about why you can feel so anxious around certain people and what might be being triggered.

Imposter syndrome affects so many of us, and it can happen at different points in life. Whether you’re stepping into a new role at work, putting yourself out there in a relationship, or simply trying something that pushes you outside your comfort zone, it can show up and make you question your worth.

I’ve experienced it myself. You might assume that because I’m a therapist and help others with these exact issues, I wouldn’t struggle with it anymore, right? But therapists aren’t immune.

People-pleasing, masking, and a lifelong feeling of being ‘too much’ or ‘difficult’ can all be deeply intertwined with the ADHD experience, particularly when you've spent years trying to fit into a world that doesn’t quite understand you.

I've finally released my therapy podcast into the world. Let's Talk People-Pleasing has been launched but it didn't happen without a good helping of initial cringe!