Hi Coach,

Let’s talk about something that holds many of us back—people pleasing.

If you’ve ever found yourself saying “yes” when you wanted to say “no,” avoiding tough conversations or bending over backwards to keep clients happy, you’re not alone.

But here’s the thing: it’s not just costing you time and energy. It’s costing you respect, confidence, and your ability to show up as the authoritative coach your clients need.

Here are 10 practical steps you can take right now to start overcoming people-pleasing.

Even if you don’t watch the video, these steps can help you align your actions with your values and boost your confidence.

10 steps to stop people pleasing and command respect

1. Say “no” more often: Identify where you’re saying “yes” but should be saying “no.” Draw a line and stick to it. It’s not about being unhelpful; it’s about focusing on what matters most.
2. Stop discounting your value: Lowering your prices to close a deal can diminish your authority. Stand firm on your rates and trust that the right clients will see the value in your expertise.
3. Turn away problem clients: If you know a client will be a difficult fit, politely turn them away. By doing so, you make space for the clients who truly align with your values and work style.
4. Call out mistakes: If a client is about to make a wrong move, speak up. Your expertise allows you to see things they might miss, and it’s your job to guide them in the right direction.
5. Address behaviours holding clients back: When you notice a behaviour that’s limiting a client’s success, be direct but empathetic. Bringing this to light can be a game-changer for them.
6. Raise concerns before they do: If something isn’t working in your client relationship, don’t wait for them to address it. Proactively raise the issue and guide the conversation towards a solution.
7. Make clients convince you they’re a good fit: In your initial discussions, ask potential clients why they want to work with you and what they hope to achieve. This sets the tone for a relationship where you are the authority, not an order-taker.
8. Have the difficult conversations: Avoiding tough discussions only prolongs the issue. Be clear, direct, and empathetic. You might find these conversations strengthen the relationship rather than weaken it.
9. Raise your prices: When was the last time you increased your rates? If it’s been more than six months, it’s time. Raising your prices can be a powerful vote of confidence in your own worth.
10. Work harder on yourself than you do on your job: Focus on improving your own habits, skills, and mindset. The more you grow, the more value you can bring to your clients—and the more confident you’ll feel in your authority.

​Watch the video here to learn more about these 10 steps to overcoming people-pleasing.

Over to you!

These 10 steps are powerful, but you don’t have to tackle them all at once.

Pick one that resonates with you the most and commit to it.

Start small, take action, and watch your confidence and AUTHORITY grow.

Hit reply and tell me which step you’re focusing on this week.

Let’s make it real, and I’ll hold you accountable to following through.

Want to go deeper? Get personal?

If you’re ready to dive deeper into these steps or tackle other challenges you’re facing as a coach, join my coaching programme.

We’ll work together to build your confidence, refine your authority, and create lasting change.

You can find out more and sign up here.

🗣️ 👀

Chris