48. I Don't Actually Need You To Like Me

There comes a point where you realise something slightly uncomfortable... You don't actually need everyone to like you. And honestly? What a relief. In this episode of No Bras Required, Patti and Meghan get right into the messy middle of leadership, motherhood, boundaries, people pleasing and the pressure women feel to be agreeable, helpful and, above all, liked. They talk about what happens when you stop trying to make everyone comfortable and start making decisions based on your values instead. Because being kind doesn't mean saying yes to everything. Being supportive doesn't mean being available 24/7. And being a good leader definitely doesn't mean everyone gets to like you. There are plenty of laughs along the way, including stories about mansplaining menopause, children investigating bathroom activities, angry dance parents, Valentine's Day drama and the occasional "did I stutter?" parenting moment. But underneath all the laughs is a pretty powerful message: You don't need to be liked. You need to lead. In this episode, we chat about: Why women can get caught in the "likability trap", especially when they step into leadership. How we're taught from a young age that assertive boys are leaders while assertive girls can be labelled "bossy." The difference between being nice and being kind, and why kindness sometimes requires an uncomfortable conversation. Why boundaries aren't selfish, whether you're a mum, teacher, studio owner or business leader. How constantly bending the rules creates expectations you might eventually resent. Why your team needs to know what your non-negotiables are, while still being given room to make mistakes and learn. The difference between avoiding conflict and practising compassion. Why "being liked" should never be the KPI you're using to measure your leadership. How to approach difficult conversations as opportunities to practise your leadership skills. Why asking "Who does this serve?" can completely change the way you make decisions. This week's challenge We're giving you a slightly uncomfortable homework assignment. Have the conversation you've been avoiding. Think it through. Write down what you want to achieve. Consider how the other person might respond. Get clear on your boundaries and your desired outcome. Then have the conversation. It might not go perfectly. But avoiding it isn't making the problem disappear. And remember: "I don't need to be liked. I need to lead."