Breaking Free from People Pleasing

Ollie Olds Podcast

Welcome back to the Ollie Olds Podcast! In today's episode, we're diving deep into a topic that hits home for many of us—people pleasing. It's that nagging habit of putting everyone else's needs before your own, often leaving you feeling drained, unappreciated, and full of resentment.

People pleasing might seem harmless at first. You want to be liked, to avoid conflict, and to make others happy. But here's the catch: constantly saying "yes" to everyone else often means saying "no" to yourself. Over time, this can lead to burnout, a lack of self-worth, and a mountain of resentment towards those around you. You end up feeling like you're living someone else's life, not your own.

I've been there myself. After spending years playing professional rugby and undergoing numerous surgeries, I found myself constantly trying to please everyone around me. I didn't want to let anyone down, but in the process, I completely neglected my own needs and desires. It took a toll on my mental health and left me feeling empty and resentful.

So, how do we break free from this cycle? Here are three actionable steps to help you overcome people pleasing and start prioritizing yourself:

The first step is learning to set healthy boundaries. Understand that it's okay to say "no" sometimes. You don't have to be available to everyone all the time. Take a moment to identify your limits and communicate them clearly to those around you. Remember, setting boundaries isn't about being selfish—it's about respecting your own needs and maintaining your mental well-being.

Make self-care a non-negotiable part of your routine. This means taking time out for activities that rejuvenate and energize you, whether it's hitting the gym, reading a book, or simply taking a quiet walk. When you prioritize your well-being, you're in a better position to help others without feeling depleted.

Lastly, work on building your self-worth. Recognize that your value doesn't come from how much you do for others, but from who you are as a person. Practice self-affirmation and remind yourself of your strengths and accomplishments. Surround yourself with supportive people who appreciate you for who you are, not just for what you can do for them.

Breaking free from the habit of people pleasing isn't easy, but it's absolutely worth it. By setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care, and cultivating self-worth, you can reclaim your life and start living authentically. Remember, it's not about being selfish—it's about being self-aware and ensuring you have the energy and happiness to share with others.

Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Ollie Olds Podcast. If you found this helpful, don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who might need to hear this message. Until next time, take care of yourself and keep pushing forward.

The People Pleasing TrapPersonal ReflectionsOvercoming People Pleasing: 3 Clear Steps1. Set Boundaries2. Prioritize Self-Care3. Cultivate Self-WorthConclusion