ReThinking How to say no
77 snips
Apr 29, 2025 
In this enlightening discussion, Vanessa Bonds, a Cornell professor and author, teams up with Sherry Liu, founder of the Eldest Daughter Club, to tackle the delicate art of saying 'no.' They explore the challenges faced by people-pleasers and offer practical strategies for setting boundaries in both personal and professional relationships. The conversation touches on societal pressures, the emotional toll of refusal, and the transformative power of a compassionate 'no.' Listeners will gain valuable insights on prioritizing their own needs while maintaining healthier connections.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
The Giving Tree's Toxic Lesson
- The Giving Tree story shows extreme people pleasing through the tree's self-sacrifice.
- The disturbing ending highlights an unhealthy, one-sided relationship masked as generosity.
People Pleasing Is Approval Craving
- Chronic people pleasing stems from craving approval, not genuine care for others.
- This creates one-sided, exhausting relationships instead of supportive connections.
Why Saying No Feels Risky
- Saying no risks reputation and relationships because refusing signals uncooperativeness.
- Social and tangible repercussions make us feel pressured to comply.
