Welcome back to Mental Mom3nts

In this episode, we’re getting honest about people pleasing: what it really is, where it comes from, and how to break the habit without losing your heart.

What I once labeled as “love” was actually overextension. I thought constantly accommodating others meant I was caring well. In reality, it was entanglement rooted in fear, control, and unhealed places.

If you struggle with:
• Saying no
• Over-giving
• Feeling resentful after doing “the right thing”
• Managing everyone else’s emotions
• Exhaustion from trying to keep the peace

This conversation is for you.

We unpack how people pleasing can be a trauma response, why controlling outcomes keeps you drained, and how to remain generous without abandoning yourself in the process.

You do not have to drain yourself to prove your love.

In This Episode, We Explore:

• How people pleasing can be rooted in past pain not pure love
• The difference between protection and control
• Why you are not responsible for managing everyone’s outcomes
• How to give freely without running at a deficit
• The power of loving from a distance when necessary

Explorer’s Takeaway:
“You can be a giving person without giving yourself away.”

This Week’s Mental Mom3nt:

Make three small shifts:

1. Pour the same intentional time into yourself that you pour into others.

2. Ask the people closest to you if the way you show up is actually helpful or just habitual.

3. Notice where your giving leaves you empty and explore new ways to love that don’t cost your peace.

Why This Episode Matters

People pleasing is often praised as kindness. But unchecked, it leads to burnout, resentment, anxiety, and identity loss. This episode bridges mental health and self-awareness to help you build healthier relationships rooted in choice not fear.

You deserve relationships where love flows both ways.

Connect With Us

Follow Mental Mom3nts on Instagram: @mentalmom3nts
Connect with your host: @healinghotti3
Email: healinghotti3@gmail.com

Share this episode with someone who needs permission to stop overextending and start healing.

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