When we let others control us by the threat of disapproval and rejection, we give up far too much of ourselves and make it impossible for us to engage in authentic relationships.

In the end, trying to be perfect is the unconscious social effort to please ourselves by pleasing these others.

Rather than being taught to accept ourselves, we were trained to make ourselves socially acceptable. And whenever we fail, we suffer inside.

When we let others control us by the threat of disapproval and rejection, we give up far too much of ourselves and make it impossible for us to engage in authentic relationships.

Say to yourself: 'Living essentially to please others is a monumental mistake.'