It can be argued that one of the greatest gifts you can give another is kindness and compassion. Further, being kind has been researched and the results suggest that engaging in acts of kindness and compassion can make us feel happy…in others words, it can feel good to be nice!

However, they are times when being too nice can prevent us from living a healthy and happy life. “Nice guys and gals” are people who are constantly doing nice things for others, often at their own expense. As a result, while people tend to like them, “nice guys and gals” sacrifice their own interests for the interests of others. The saying “you can attract more flies with honey than vinegar” often holds true when dealing with people; however, “nice guys and gals” may also be attracting headaches and stress by unintentionally inviting people to take advantage of them.

Regarding the research on kindness and happiness, it is important to understand that as long as you sacrifice yourself for others, complete happiness is not possible.

At the core, there is a belief that in and of themselves, they have little value, are not likable or lovable. Therefore, their self-esteem and self-worth are founded on constant acceptance by and the approval of others.

Because I am a “nice guy” in recovery and can relate to what it is like to feel as though being too nice has set you back at times. The good news is that you can be a “nice guy/gal” and still set the boundaries needed to ensure your best interests are upheld.

• Rarely speak up for yourself
• Have been referred to as a “people pleaser”
• Almost always say “yes” or have difficulty saying “no”
• Frequently make compromises
• Rarely ask for what you want
• Work really hard to be liked
• Rarely tell people when you are mad at or upset with them
• Frequently get stuck doing the “dirty” work
• Apologize frequently and sometimes even for things you are not responsible for
• Avoid conflict
• Find it very difficult to live with the thought that someone does not like you
• Find it very difficult to live with the thought that you have disappointed someone

• Research has suggested that “nice guys/gals” earn less income
• Increased stress and frustration in life
• Increased risk of being manipulated or exploited
• Strained relationships

If you can relate to these experiences, give me a call or request an appointment using my secure online portal, as I’d be happy to speak with you. It is never too late to give yourself permission to put yourself first!