Quick Spoon: When we avoid disappointing others

Success doesn't always feel like success.In this Quick Spoon, Ross reflects on a coaching conversation with someone who appeared to have everything going for them: successful, respected and on track for a remarkable career.Yet something wasn't right.As they explored what mattered most, a powerful pattern emerged. Many of their decisions weren't moving them towards what they valued. Instead, they were helping them avoid disappointing other people.It's a trap that many of us fall into, especially when we're caring, conscientious and ambitious.Reflection QuestionThink about a decision you're currently wrestling with.Are you moving towards something important, or away from someone else's disappointment?People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Why good leaders go off track - A People Soup special #1 - People SoupLeadership beyond autopilot - The McIntosh ACT Leadership FrameworkHere's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on Bluesky