How to Stop Being a People Pleaser: The Science Behind Why We Do It and How to Stop

How to Stop Being a People Pleaser: The Science Behind Why We Do It and How to Stop

From PRODUCTIVITY by Brandon White

May 5, 2026 · 5 min · Season 1 · Episode 278

About this episode

This episode explores the concept of people pleasing, its psychological roots, and offers strategies to overcome it for better personal well-being.

People pleasing: what being a people pleaser is, why the science says we do it, and 3 ways to stop people pleasing and start protecting your own time and sanity so you can be happier with yourself. STUDY CITATIONS Crocker, J., & Park, L. E. (2004). The costly pursuit of self-esteem. Psychological Bulletin, 130(3), 392–414.Canlı, D., & Karaşar, B. (2021). Predictors of major depressive disorder: The need for social approval and self-esteem. Alpha Psychiatry, 22(1), 38–42. CONNECT WITH...

People in this episode

Host: Brandon White

Topics covered

  • people pleasing
  • self-esteem
  • mental health
  • personal development
  • time management

Keywords

  • people pleasing
  • self-esteem
  • mental health
  • personal development
  • time management
  • psychology
  • happiness

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