Why "I'm Fine" Is a Lie: The Hidden Cost of People Pleasing

Think you’re holding it all together? What if “I’m fine” is actually the biggest red flag? In this episode of A Wilder Life, Eric discusses how high-achievers often mask emotional exhaustion with over-functioning, how unresolved childhood patterns sneak into adulthood, and how the practice of self-compassion, emotional safety, and radical self-responsibility can transform performance, relationships, and mental health. Guest Kamini Wood shares her deeply personal journey from perfectionist people-pleaser to conscious leadership coach, and offers powerful tools for anyone ready to stop muscling through life and start healing. Key Takeaways:→ Why saying “I’m fine” could mean you’re in trouble.→ How to build emotional safety in your personal and professional relationships.→ The power of modeling self-compassion for your children and team.→ How radical honesty (when delivered safely) can lead to breakthrough growth.→ Why high performers are often the last to ask for help—and what to do about it. Quotes from Kamini Wood:● "We’ve masked for so long, it becomes conditioned behavior to just go along."● "Most of us say 'I’m fine' when we’re actually pushing down what we really feel."● "People-pleasing taught me to disconnect from my own needs to make others comfortable." About Kamini Wood:Kamini Wood is a certified coach, author, and speaker who helps high-achieving professionals break free from stress, anxiety, toxic relationships, and perfectionism. Founder of Live Joy Your Way, Kamini specializes in conscious leadership, emotional intelligence, and building resilience through self-compassion and radical self-responsibility. Connect with Kamini Wood:Website: https://www.kaminiwood.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsauthenticmeLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaminiwood