Written by Ruzhdi Gashi, writer and positive thinking coach
In life, we often feel the pressure to meet other people’s expectations. Many times, we make choices that don’t reflect our own desires, but are made simply to gain others’ approval and acceptance. On the surface, this approach may seem to create harmony and avoid conflict, but deep down, it is a great sacrifice of the self.
Living to please others means neglecting your own desires, dreams, and personal values. It’s like building a life that belongs to you physically, but spiritually belongs to others. People may be happy with you because you do what they want, but at the end of the day, you are the one who feels empty and dissatisfied.
A common example is choosing a career based on the wishes of parents, society, or friends. A person may choose a profession they are not passionate about, just to avoid disappointing those around them. Even though they may appear successful on the outside, inside they may feel a lack of fulfillment and happiness. This shows that we cannot find true meaning in life by constantly seeking others’ approval.
On the other hand, this behavior creates an endless cycle. The more you try to please others, the more their expectations grow. And when you fail to meet them, you may feel judged or unworthy. This feeling not only damages self-confidence but also hinders real personal growth.
Living to please others is an illusion that prioritizes appearance over substance. Our life cannot be based on what others think of us; it must reflect what we think of ourselves. The moment we realize that our satisfaction depends on the choices we make for ourselves, we begin to build a life that has true meaning and value.
In conclusion, the effort to be liked by others is a sacrifice that ends up neglecting personal happiness and authenticity. Only when we begin to live for ourselves and for our inner values can we feel complete and true satisfaction. Because in the end, life is a personal journey, and the greatest fulfillment comes from being true to oneself.
