Stick to the facts when communicating with a people pleaser. People pleasers often find it difficult to perceive reality because they construct a perception that fits their need to make everyone happy. As a result, communication that is wrought with emotion and opinion probably won't be as effective as being clear about what you are saying and expressing it without judgment. If necessary, ask the people pleaser to state what you have tried to explain. This can help you understand the distortion in perception that may prevent the people pleaser from having a clear understanding of what you are saying.

Reassure the people pleaser that saying "no" isn't a bad thing in conversation. Perhaps the most difficult word for a people pleaser to utter is "no." This seemingly benign word represents the potential for the people pleaser to disappoint someone, even if the situation warrants disagreement. Reassure the people pleaser that her disagreement isn't just encouraged, it's essential to facilitate communication. If she seems to have difficulty disagreeing with you but you believe she is resistant to the word "no," offer an alternative opinion as a possible response.

Point out to the people pleaser the effects of the difficulty with balanced communication. Individuals who rely on people pleasing as their primary approach to interaction may not have enough self-awareness to recognize how their behavior affects others. Health Guidance notes that people pleasers derive benefit from an ally who guides them in changing their communication approach. Keep in mind that it's important to be tactful in your approach to explaining the difficulty of communicating with the people pleaser.

Provide a positive role model for the people pleaser. Leading by example can be effective in helping a people pleaser experience a new approach to communication. Avoid monopolizing the conversation, instead asking questions to elicit an opinion from the people pleaser. Rather than simply sharing your position in the conversation, explain how you arrived at your argument without forcing your opinion. Be supportive of the people pleaser, especially when you see him making a concerted effort to implement an alternative opinion or to say "no."