People-pleasing is an adaptive strategy we use to get our core needs met. People pleasing has a lot of good intentions behind it, but it also has some negative downsides that include:

• Sacrificing too much of yourself and then feeling resentful after you’ve said yes
• Becoming overly-sensitive to rejection
• Basing your self-worth on what you do for others
• Having a hard time finding your voice

People-pleasers are often conflict adverse and prefer to avoid strong emotions. Perfectionism may also be present.  Cognitive behavioral therapy provides a good framework for learning healthy ways to assert your needs and wants. Positive communication skills are vital for healthy relationships that deepen over time.