A review by apagetoturn
People Pleaser: Breaking Free from the Burden of Imaginary Expectations by Jinger Vuolo

3.5

Jinger Vuolo's People Pleaser offers a deeply personal and thought-provoking exploration of the struggles many face with constantly trying to meet others’ expectations, often at the cost of their own well-being. As someone who has grown up in the public eye, Vuolo’s perspective is uniquely insightful, providing readers with both a relatable and authentic voice on the challenges of shedding the desire to please.

The book is divided into various sections that tackle the psychological roots of people-pleasing, the cultural pressures that exacerbate it, and the steps toward breaking free. Vuolo weaves in personal anecdotes from her own life, especially her journey through faith and the emotional toll of trying to live up to unrealistic standards. Her experiences make the book engaging, and her vulnerability is both commendable and relatable.

However, while the book offers valuable insights, there are moments where the narrative feels somewhat repetitive or lacks depth in addressing some of the underlying causes of people-pleasing behaviors. Some readers may also find the faith-based advice to be a bit niche, though it will undoubtedly resonate deeply with others, particularly those in similar communities or faith backgrounds.

Despite these critiques, the book is an encouraging guide for anyone struggling with the pressure to conform and please. It's a gentle reminder that breaking free from these patterns is a gradual, sometimes uncomfortable journey, but one worth taking for the sake of personal growth and inner peace.