I once heard someone describe people-pleasing as living with a silent apology for wanting anything different from others.
The word “acquiesce” comes to mind.
To surrender or submit—an impulse many people-pleasers know well.
(Properly understood, surrender – to what is – is a good thing, but I’m talking about capitulation).
The pressure to yield to others’ desires can feel so heavy, it often silences our own.
But this habit of acquiescing holds us back from something fundamental.
Living on other people’s terms is like trying to paint a masterpiece with colours someone else chose.
When we constantly defer to others, we give away pieces of ourselves.
Our dreams shrink to make space for someone else’s.
Our voice grows quiet.
Yet, the world doesn’t need more people who fade into the background of their own lives.
It needs people who honor their truth, who say “yes” to what’s aligned and “no” to what isn’t.
So, the question becomes: what desires of yours have been waiting for you to choose them?
Acquiescence might feel safe in the moment.
But honoring your own needs is the only way to feel alive, in the fullest sense.
Imagine the power of standing rooted, even as others push and pull.
A self-worth that doesn’t bend to approval, but stands true.
Your life is waiting.
Let the world see you as you are, not just as someone else wishes you to be.
After all, the deepest respect we offer to others begins with the respect we give ourselves.
Your guide back to you,
Bruce
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PS. Whenever you’re ready, here are some ways I can support you:
- Watch my free End People Pleasing Webinar: See how I help people overcome people-pleasing in as little as 12 weeks: Click here.
- Free End People Pleasing Consultation: We’ll look at what exactly is going on in your life right now and establish best next steps for you to end people-pleasing: Click here.
- Join my free Facebook group: Achieving results on your own is very difficult. But with the right group of people, anything is possible. Join this supportive group of people who are happy to support you on your way: Click here.
- Book a therapy session with me: Email me at bruce@brucesanguin.ca.
