...when life feels overwhelming (community crisis, work stress, relationship conflicts, or just the general weight of being responsible for everyone's emotions), your people-pleasing patterns can actually work against you. Because when your nervous system is dysregulated, you can't access your prefrontal cortex. That's the part of your brain behind your forehead that helps you think clearly, make good decisions, and act according to your values.

If you grew up in a family where saying No wasn’t allowed or where your worth was tied to pleasing others, boundaries might feel like rejection or selfishness. In reality, boundaries are about honesty and respect. They let people know what you can give and what you can’t. Without them, you risk resentment, burnout, and inauthentic connection.