The Double Cost of Sacrifice

We think sacrifice is leadership.
“I’ll take the hit so they don’t have to.”
“It’s easier if I just do it myself.”

Here’s the problem: sacrifice always backfires.

• You resent them. You gave up your time, energy, or health. Deep down, you wanted them to notice. When they don’t, you feel unappreciated and you bury it under “this is what leaders do.”

• They resent you. They can feel the obligation in your actions. The edge in your tone. The subtle frustration. But they never asked you to do it. So instead of gratitude, they feel annoyed, like now they’ve got to deal with your choice.

That’s the trap: sacrifice creates resentment on both sides. You’re drained. They’re frustrated. Nobody wins.

Sacrifice is just a hidden bid for gratitude.
When you stop needing the thank-you and have your own back, people lean in.
That’s when your influence grows.

👉 That’s the work of authentic confidence. Start here: https://www.bethoughtly.com/ace-assessment

Believing in you,
Allison