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Optimising Leader Brilliance

Assertiveness for Leaders: Breaking the People-Pleasing Pattern

Optimising Leader Brilliance · 2026-03-24 · 28 min

Episode notes

Did you know your brain processes a 'social rejection'exactly like physical pain? That's why saying 'no' to your boss feels like a survival threat. Today, I'm showing you how to re-wire that response. In this miniseries episode, I explore the Please Me Patternand why people-pleasing behaviour keeps you trapped in cycles of overcommitment, resentment, and burnout. I share the neuroscience behind why rejection feels like physical pain, reveal a powerful client breakthrough with a narcissistic boss, and give you practical tools to set boundaries without guilt. Whether you struggle to say no at work or find yourself constantly organising everything for everyone, this episode will show you how to break free from people-pleasing for good.

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