How to Stop Being a People-Pleaser

Verywell / Julie Bang

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Every Friday on The Verywell Mind Podcast, Editor-in-Chief Amy Morin, LCSW, shares the “Friday Fix”—a short episode featuring a quick, actionable tip or exercise to help you manage a specific mental health issue or concern.

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Friday Fix: Episode 133

It’s normal to want to be liked and accepted. But taken too far, you could become a people-pleaser

People pleasing can become a chronic habit that is tough to break. You might say "yes" to things you don’t want to do to prevent someone from getting angry. Or, you might say what you think people want to hear so that you’ll fit in with those around you.

If you’ve been a lifelong people-pleaser, it’s tough to stand up for yourself and express your true opinions.

But, it’s important to do so. Being able to be yourself is key to good mental health. It may also be key to helping you reach your goals. Fortunately, you can start with one small step at a time.

In this episode, I share how you can start to break free from people-pleasing habits. I explain why people become people-pleasers, the downsides of trying to make people happy, and the steps you can take to start taking care of your own needs.

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By Amy Morin, LCSW
Amy Morin, LCSW, is a psychotherapist and international bestselling author. Her books, including "13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do," have been translated into more than 40 languages. Her TEDx talk,  "The Secret of Becoming Mentally Strong," is one of the most viewed talks of all time.