People Pleasing vs True Service: Finding Your Balance this Holiday Season

During the holidays, it becomes naturally desirable to make everyone around us happy, often leading us into a tangle between people-pleasing and genuine service. It's essential to discern the difference between the two, for the sake of our own well-being and in order to truly spread joy.

People-pleasing often takes the shape of saying 'yes' simply to avoid disappointment, while true service comes from a place of sincere desire to help and give. In people-pleasing, we overlook our own needs and boundaries, whereas true service respects our limits and energy.

Here are a few ways to discern between people-pleasing and true service and possibly avoid holiday burnout:

• Check-in with yourself: Regularly ask yourself if you are feeling energized or drained. Is your decision to help coming from an obligation or from sincere eagerness?
• Learn to say 'No' gracefully: If a request doesn't resonate with you or encroaches your boundaries, learn to decline with kindness.
• Prioritize self-care: Ensure you set aside time each day for activities that recharge you. Healthy mind equals healthy service to others.
• Remember your limits: It's okay not to be able to do everything. Identify your limits and stick to them.

As we navigate the remainder of the holiday season, may we truly serve in ways that not only benefit others but nurture our spirit too. Remember, your well-being is critical, just as important if not more, and true service is never at the cost of your own happiness.

You are uplifted!