Overworking and people pleasing

You want to be helpful, reliable, and easy to work with.

You don’t want to let people down, so you say yes, and step in and take things on.

At first, it works, people trust you and you get things done, but over time, it starts to take a toll.

You’re stretched, frustrated, sometimes even resentful, and still, you find it hard to say no.

• You say yes to things you don’t really want to do
• You worry about how people will react if you push back
• You take on more than your fair share
• You feel responsible for keeping others happy
• You avoid difficult conversations
• You end up feeling frustrated or taken for granted

From the outside, you look supportive but, on the inside, it can feel quite different.

People pleasing isn’t about being 'too nice' , it’s usually driven by something deeper:

• A fear of disappointing others
• A need to be liked or approved of
• A belief that your value comes from what you do for others

So you prioritise everyone else, even when it comes at your own expense.

Over time, this pattern can lead to:

• Overworking and taking on too much
• Lack of clear boundaries
• Feeling resentful or drained
• Struggling to focus on your own priorities
• A sense that you’re always giving, but not getting much back

It’s exhausting, and it often goes unnoticed by others.

This isn’t about becoming less kind or less supportive, but it is about learning how to include yourself in the equation.

Through coaching, we work on:

• Understanding why you find it hard to say no
• Recognising the patterns you’re stuck
• Building the confidence to set boundaries
• Having honest conversations without overthinking them
• Making decisions that work for you as well as others

Clients often notice that they:

• Say no without feeling guilty
• Communicate more clearly and confidently
• Have more time and energy for their own priorities
• Feel more respected by others
• Stop carrying unnecessary pressure

You’re still supportive, just not at your own expense.

For focused, personalised support to change how you think and work.

A small group day to step back, reset, and get clear on what matters.

A simple way to start working through people pleasing in your own time.

If you’re curious about whether this could help, the best place to start is a conversation.

No pressure, just a chance to talk it through and see if it feels right.

Or if you’d prefer to start on your own, you can explore the Are you a People Pleaser? workbook.