journal prompts for people pleasers learning boundaries
People pleasers stand up!
We’re, unfortunately, a mighty team. It can be so difficult to go against people pleasing because it does happen to feel amazing to be liked and praised.
But the more you’re okay with doing and saying things that go against the desire or need to constantly please people, the better you’ll be able to stand up for yourself in certain situations and put yourself first.
As you go on your journey to not have to please everyone, here are some journal prompts to learn boundaries as a people pleaser:
understanding people pleasing patterns
What situations make it hardest for you to say no?
How do you feel in your body when you agree to something you don’t want to do?
What do you fear will happen if someone is disappointed in you?
How often do you put your needs last, and why?
When was the last time you ignored your intuition to keep someone else comfortable?
What role does guilt play in your decision-making?
How do you usually react when someone gets upset with you?
When do I feel most drained by trying to please others?
How often do you apologize when you haven’t done anything wrong?
practicing boundaries in real life
What’s one small boundary I can start practicing this week?
How can I communicate a boundary kindly but firmly?
What physical or emotional signals tell me a boundary has been crossed?
Who in my life respects my boundaries, and how does that feel?
Who tends to test or disregard them, and why might that be?
How can I respond without guilt when someone pushes my limits?
What boundaries do I want to set around my time and energy?
How can I better handle the discomfort that comes with enforcing a boundary?
How can I practice assertive communication daily?
What’s one past situation I wish I had set a boundary in, and what would I do differently now?
feeling comfortable choosing myself
Why do I feel guilty when I prioritize myself?
What beliefs make me think I’m responsible for other people’s happiness?
What’s the worst thing I imagine happening if I say no, and how often does that “worst thing” actually happen?
How can I reframe “no” as an act of self respect instead of selfishness?
How does guilt affect my life?
What calming phrases can I use when guilt starts creeping in?
When have I chosen myself and felt empowered afterward?
What helps me let go of the fear of not being liked?
How can I remind myself that I don’t owe anyone constant availability?
Who has modeled healthy boundaries for me, and what can I learn from them?
How can I celebrate myself for every time I protect my peace?
building authentic connections
How can I bring more honesty and vulnerability into my relationships?
What does a balanced friendship or partnership look like to me?
Who in my life allows me to be my full self without judgment?
How can I attract relationships that honor mutual respect and space?
What conversations do I need to have to realign my relationships?
How do I know when it’s time to distance myself from someone?
How can I repair a relationship that’s been hurt by lack of boundaries?
How can I be compassionate without overextending myself?
How can I continue growing into someone who honors both kindness and self respect?
