Breaking the Cycle of People-Pleasing: Importance of Setting Boundaries and Prioritizing Self-Care

Taylor Swift, an internationally renowned superstar, recently shared her struggles with the constant need to be liked and admitted to being a people pleaser in her documentary "Miss Americana." She opened up about always saying yes to favors, even if it made her uncomfortable, as she tended to prioritize others over herself. Dr.

Rahul Chandhok, a mental health and behavioral science consultant at Artemis Hospital in Gurugram, explains that people pleasers often sacrifice their own well-being, time, and resources for the sake of others. This selflessness can lead to feelings of resentment and burnout. Traits such as excessive agreeableness, difficulty saying no, and a strong desire for validation can have a significant impact on their relationships and overall mental health.

Dr. Austin Fernandes, a psychiatrist at Dr. LH Hiranandani Hospital in Mumbai, points out that people pleasers struggle to say no due to fears of rejection, disappointment, or the constant need for approval.

This behavior can result in mental and emotional decline over time, leading to regrets and a decrease in overall well-being. Saying yes to others constantly can cause increased stress, anxiety, and feelings of resentment or frustration. Neglecting one's own needs and desires can lead to a lack of fulfillment and satisfaction in life, perpetuating a cycle of seeking external validation and approval.

Dr. Chandhok stresses the importance of setting boundaries, asserting oneself, prioritizing self-care, and listening to one's intuition to break free from the pattern of people-pleasing. Reflecting on personal values, practicing self-compassion, and seeking support are crucial steps in building healthier relationships with oneself and others.

Recognizing when to say no involves understanding your limits, priorities, and boundaries. It is essential to decline requests that conflict with your values or well-being, when you lack the resources to fulfill them, or when they do not align with your priorities. Communicating in a direct, clear, respectful, and assertive manner when saying no is key to practicing self-care and maintaining a balanced life.