If anyone is interested a book that REALLY helped me it is a new book by Christian speaker Joyce Meyer. Her book is called "Approval Addiction". I got mine from the library (:

God Bless !

Can you give us a little background on this book so we know if it is something that would help us as individuals?

Hello Diane.
This book is on the subject of being a people pleaser but I think that how we handle the expectations of others and ourselves is very much connected.
I'm going to type the description of the book from what is printed on the inside jacket. Hope this helps, as I find this book speaks 100% truth. Kind regards, E.
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So many people today have an unhealthy need for affirmation and are unable to feel good about themselves without it. These "approval addicts" spend their time in a constant struggle with low self-esteem and emotional turmoil - which leads to major problems in their relationships with others.
In her latest book, Joyce Meyer provides a path to release from the overwhelming need for acceptance from the outside world - an acceptance that is unfulfilling and leads only to disappointment. Through an analysis of what makes an "approval addict" and the way to find release from specific character traits that foster addiction, Joyce provides a supportive voice and a personal understanding of the effect of insecurity in one's life. Her abiding message is that God provides all the affirmation anyone needs, and through Him they can attain freedom.

Begin the journey toward self-understanding , and learn how to :

Accept who you are. All of us struggle with our sense of worthiness. Joyce's goal is to help us understand that we are all whole in God, regardless of our flaws.

Address your approval addiction. Understanding the specific character traits that foster addiction - and how our past is often a factor in our behaviour - is a major step in overcoming our insecurities.

Break the pattern for the future. ONly by taking conscious steps toward accepting ourselves and examining our motives, and by depending on God who loves us regardless, can we finally begin to break the chains of insecurity and move toward a life free from emotional pain.

God tells us over and over in the Bible that we are loved and we are worthy - in Christ. So take the first step now to overcome approval addiction by taking an honest look at who you are and how you feel about yourself.

Hi guys - what a great post!! Joyce Meyer is a wonderful person. She's got her own talk show called "Everyday Living". For me its on a 6am on ABC Family. I love her!! She uses Christian insight (bible quotes) to talk about how to live a balanced life but its not overbearing. Check out her website for insightful articles and her television schedule. Here website is joycemeyer.org. Hope this helps!!

Hi Nice Girl ! I LOVE Joyce Meyer too!
She has helped me so much because she has been willing to be so transparent about her own life and her own struggles. God bless her for being so courageous! He has definitely used her to help so many people.

Kind Regards,
E.