Ever find yourself saying "sure!" before your brain’s even loaded the question?

I’m diving into The Art of Saying No, and the people-pleasing panic that so often comes with ADHD and anxiety. When your brain’s wired to avoid guilt, conflict or rejection, even the smallest “no” can feel absolutely massive.

I’m learning to pause before the panic, set limits without spiralling, and remind myself that disappointing someone isn’t the same as doing something wrong. 💛

Because honestly, being a “yes person” with ADHD and anxiety can feel like a full-time job. From apologising to bins (yes, really) to replaying every conversation in your head for days, people-pleasing might look like control, but it’s actually just exhaustion wearing a polite smile.

ADHD impulsivity and anxious overthinking create the perfect storm, making every “no” feel like rejection. I talk about why that happens, how to pause before the panic, and what I’m doing to break the habit of over-apologising for existing.

✨ What I cover:

• Why ADHD and anxiety make saying “no” feel dangerous
• The people-pleasing cycle of yes → regret → burnout
• My go-to tools: the delay, the tiny no and the approval detox
• Reframing guilt as empathy (without losing yourself in it)

💬 Quote to remember:

“Disappointing someone is not the same as doing something wrong.”

If this gives you even a smidge of courage to say “nah, not today”, share it with a fellow overthinker or recovering people-pleaser. You don’t owe everyone your energy, just your authenticity.

#ADHD #Anxiety #PeoplePleasing #Boundaries #MentalHealth #Podcast #Neurodivergent #SelfGrowth