How To Stop Being A Pushover
Being kind and good-natured is awesome, but there’s a big difference between making others happy and bending over backwards to please everyone. Let’s talk about how to stop being a pushover and start standing up for yourself!
What’s a Pushover, Anyway?
A pushover is someone who’s easily swayed by others. They find it super hard to say no and often end up doing things just to please people. But here’s the thing – being a pushover isn’t doing you any favors.
As a pushover, you’re:
– Making yourself vulnerable
– Losing your voice
– Showing fear and defeat
You’re basically giving up everything that makes you unique just to keep others happy. Not cool, right?
Why Do People Become Pushovers?
Nobody wakes up one day and decides, “Hey, I’m gonna be a pushover!” It usually starts small and snowballs into a habit. Maybe you’re always helping your buddy with homework or running errands for friends when you’re already swamped.
These might seem like no big deal, but they can add up. So why do people fall into this trap?
Cat Got Your Tongue?
Some folks struggle to speak up. Maybe the thought of saying no makes you break out in a cold sweat.
Dodging Drama
Confrontation can be scary. Some people would rather go along with everything than risk a face-off. But living in fear? That’s no way to live, my friend.
Fear of Missing Out
Being alone sucks, and making friends can be tough. Some people think agreeing to everything is the fast track to friendship. But here’s the truth bomb: if someone’s always asking you for favors, that’s not friendship – that’s being used.
How to Stop Being a Pushover
Always saying yes doesn’t make you popular or respected. It makes you an easy target. It’s time to take control and demand respect. Here’s how:
Let It Out
Bottling up your emotions isn’t healthy. If you’re feeling frustrated or angry about always being asked to do things, speak up! Show them you’re not a puppet – you’ve got feelings too. For more on this, check out “What to Say to Someone Who Is Hurting Emotionally“.
You’re Number One
Your life matters, and so does your happiness. Don’t lower your worth to please others. Try this: write down your future goals. It’ll remind you to put yourself first.
Stand Your Ground
When you say no, mean it. If someone pushes back, stand firm. Your “no” is a statement, not a question. Show ’em you’ve got backbone!
Check the Respect-o-Meter
If you’re always doing favors for someone, ask yourself: are they doing the same for you? If not, it might be time to cut them loose. Real friends respect each other. Don’t be afraid to ditch people who take advantage of you. For more insights, read “Why Am I Always Helping Others Without Reciprocation?”
Perfection is Overrated
People pleasers often aim for perfection. But guess what? It’s okay to say no. It’s okay to mess up. Is chasing perfection really worth it if it’s messing with who you are?
Perfection is a myth, so aim for self-happiness instead of trying to make everyone else happy.
Wrapping It Up
Being called a pushover sucks, but you don’t have to stay one. It’s time to put yourself first because your life is the most valuable thing you’ve got.
Follow your own path. Be brave. Say no.
**You’ve got this. Here’s to the new, assertive you!**
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Author: Michelle Landeros, LMFT
Michelle Landeros is a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT). She is passionate about helping individuals, couples and families thrive.
ABOUT ME
Hi! I am Michelle Landeros, LMFT. I am a mother, wife, author, baker and foodie. Welcome to my blog Therapist Pages. Covering a wide range of topics from mental health, wellness, relationships and overall well-being. I am passionate about sharing information that improves your wellness journey.