You’re not just a people-pleaser or perfectionist—Here’s why it’s time to break free

Stuck in People-Pleasing or Perfectionism? It’s Time for a Change Blog post by Melanie Shmois, Work-Life Balance Coaching

Do you ever catch yourself saying, “I’m just a people-pleaser” or “I’m such a perfectionist”—as though these patterns define who you are?

Today, I had a conversation with a client who kept calling herself a “people-pleaser,” wearing it like a badge that explained everything about her struggles. Another client often refers to herself as a “perfectionist” on our calls.

Here’s what I reminded them—and what I want to remind YOU:

You are not your patterns.

These tendencies—people-pleasing, perfectionism, or something else—are not your identity. They’re patterns you likely developed in childhood to protect yourself or navigate the world.

Maybe you learned to please others to keep the peace at home.
Maybe perfectionism helped you feel in control in an unpredictable environment.

But here’s the truth:
You are so much more than the coping strategies you developed.

As an adult, these patterns can sometimes hold you back more than they help. The good news? With the right care, attention, and coaching, you can look at these patterns, work with them, and even dissolve them.

And here’s the kicker—if that pattern dissolved tomorrow, you’d still be here. Your essence, your worth, and your unique light will remain intact.

By working to understand and release these patterns, you create space for something much deeper: fulfillment.

Imagine your life if you no longer felt trapped by the need to please everyone or make everything perfect. Imagine the freedom to show up authentically and unapologetically as yourself.

This is where true fulfillment lives. It’s not in your patterns or labels but in the freedom to live a life aligned with your values, purpose, and joy.

If you’re ready to explore the patterns holding you back and take the first step toward greater fulfillment, let’s talk. I love working with my clients to help them move beyond patterns and into a life that feels as good as it looks.

Remember: You are not your pattern. You are so much more.

Melanie Shmois, MSSA, LISW-S

Licensed social worker, holding a Master’s Degree (MSSA) from Case Western Reserve University and a B.A. in Sociology with a minor in Spanish. After spending 2 decades helping others achieve their mental and personal goals, I worked with Master Coach Instructor, Brooke Castillo, and became a certified Life and Weight Coach through the Life Coach School. I am also an Intuitive coach and Shadow integration Master.

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Slowing Down for the Holidays: Finding Fulfillment Beyond the Hustle