Definition: The self-sabotaging act of constantly jumping over your own emotional/social fences to cater to others’ demands or comfort, leaving your personal needs trampled in the dirt. Often disguised as being ‘nice’ or ‘helpful’, it’s really people-pleasing on steroids.
You end up exhausted, secretly resentful, and wondering why nobody respects your invisible lines. Long-term, it erodes self-worth faster than interest compounds on a payday loan, teaching everyone you’re a doormat with excellent jumping skills.
Example: Despite her exhaustion, Lily agreed to organize her neighbor’s surprise party, canceling her own therapy session and burying her resentment under a smile.
Mark skipped his daughter’s recital to finish a colleague’s report, earning praise but feeling hollow as his family’s disappointment etched deeper into his self-worth.