Those of us who are people pleasers became one as a coping mechanism against oppression.
That may sound dramatic, but it’s true.
You experienced oppression at some point in your life. So did I.
What’s behind all oppression is a denial of the truth for the person being oppressed. Their right to express their truth. When we are oppressed it is a denial of our value as unique human beings.
Oppression can occur in overt ways and very subtle ways.
It may be the open manipulation, control, racism, sexism and/or condemnation by a person who believes they are superior.
It might be overt shaming for who you are or what you believe.
It might be a subtle glance from a parent when you tell them you’re gay/trans/non-binary or some other thing that freaks them out like hearing you don’t want to become the Dr. they always wanted you to be.
When we experience oppression it’s a common reaction to please our oppressors. To conform, even if not entirely, into something the oppressor will “like.”
What’s the antidote to oppression?
Authentic Power.
Authentic Power always begins internally.
Then, it changes externally in how we show up in the world.
Authentic power is what every oppressor hates. Which is why there are so my examples of oppressors unjustly punishing, incarcerating and “casting out” when those they wish to oppress won’t be oppressed. Think Rosa Parks, Lillian Lennon (@mslillianlennon,) Nelson Mandela, etc.
That’s why I’m on a mission to liberate people pleasers. Because being liberated means we are standing in our authentic power.
It means we speak up.
It means we don’t diminish or silence our truth because it’s not convenient or easy.
It means we prioritize our wants and needs so that we are not easily fooled by a charismatic oppressor.
That’s what the world needs. The world needs all of us to own our authentic power. It is our birthright.
Sure, it will piss off the oppressors, but I think it’s time! Are you with me?