On Assertiveness, Authenticity & Self-Advocacy

Up until now, I have been such a people pleaser in my life. Recently I've been given the opportunity to work on this aspect of my personality.

Countless times I overgave, was too nice, too kind and too generous with my time, effort and resources in an effort to make other people happy.

Who am I to think I know what makes other people happy?

Who am I to think that I am responsible for someone else's happiness?

Who am I to think that I am not indeed manipulating when I do some action in order for people to be happy or to like me?

Much of my people pleasing was centred around doing some action to another person’s earn love.

As a young girl, I was taught to be a good girl, that when I did what the adults in my life wanted, I would earn praise and be loved in return.

What I am learning now is that love is unconditional. I don't need to be a certain way or do what people want me to do in order to be loved.

I am whole, just as I stand today.

I am complete, just as I breathe today.

I am lovable, just as I am today.

I have boundaries today. When I assert those boundaries, this is an act of self love.

I have things that are right for me, and only I truly know what they are. When I share with another what is right for me, and only me, I am in my authenticity.

I can be my own champion. When I stand up for myself, I am my own advocate.

If you are someone who people pleases, I ask of you this… who are you to think you know what makes other people happy?

In gratitude,

Alana Mai xo