Constantly seeking to please others (people-pleasing) does not make us a good person, but rather stems from a fear of rejection, which deprives us of our autonomy and generates internal resentment.

noli's read

This observation resonates strongly with research in well-being psychology, which associates an excessive need for approval with lower life satisfaction. An observational study published in *Frontiers in Psychology* (2020) shows that suppressing one's own opinions to please others (self-silencing) is directly correlated with increased stress and emotional exhaustion. Furthermore, research on assertiveness confirms that setting healthy boundaries strengthens the sense of self-efficacy and control over one's life. However, research adds nuance by noting that a certain degree of attention to the desires of others fosters social cohesion and empathy, two essential pillars of our balance. Overall, prioritizing integrity over the fear of displeasing others is a validated strategy for cultivating better relational and emotional health.

the sources

No named source held this one up — that absence is part of the verdict.