... Read moreI used to be someone who always put others before myself, rarely saying no and constantly worrying about their feelings. Like many who identify as people-pleasers or with a '讨好型人格,' I thought that by being considerate and avoiding conflicts, people would appreciate me more. However, what I experienced instead was often feeling overlooked and taken for granted.
This pattern happens because when you never say no or express your own needs, people start to assume you don't have any or that their demands are your priority. Over time, this can lead to resentment and emotional exhaustion. You might also find yourself suppressing genuine feelings to maintain peace, which negatively affects your self-esteem.
One crucial lesson I learned was about boundaries ('边界感'). Setting healthy limits is not selfish—it’s necessary to maintain mutual respect in any relationship. For example, when someone asks for a favor, instead of immediately agreeing, I started pausing to assess if I could manage it without sacrificing my well-being. Saying "no" became a tool for self-care rather than conflict.
Another important insight was understanding that your worth is not defined solely by how much you do for others. Valuing yourself means recognizing your own needs and making room for them. This change improved my relationships, as I could engage more authentically and avoid the feeling of being a doormat.
If you find yourself often ignoring your own needs to please others, know that you’re not alone. Acknowledging this behavior is the first step toward healthier interpersonal dynamics. Remember, being considerate includes considering yourself. Your feelings and boundaries matter just as much as anyone else's.