Priyanka Chopra Reveals She Was A Doormat In Her Previous Relationships: 10 Tips On How To Regain Self-Respect

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Priyanka Chopra Jonas has made a significant mark globally in films and entertainment. She enjoys her success with the unwavering support of her husband, Nick Jonas. However, she wasn't always this confident in her past relationships.

On the Call Her Daddy podcast, Priyanka had once shared that she felt like a 'doormat' in previous relationships. "I just thought I had an idea of what a relationship should be like, and I kept seeking that and trying to fit the people that came into my life into my idea of that relationship."

"I literally would become like a doormat and I was like, okay, that's fine because, you know, that's what women have been told for such a long time that our role is to glue the family together or you've got to make your man feel comfortable when he comes back home." This feeling of being invisible in relationships led her to question why she felt so taken for granted.

What Is Being A 'Doormat' In Relationship?

This term 'doormat', often used to describe someone who is overly submissive or passive, can resonate with many people who have experienced imbalanced relationships where their needs and feelings were sidelined.

Recognizing these patterns and learning how to assert oneself is crucial for maintaining a healthy, respectful, and fulfilling relationship. Here, we provide ten tips on how not to be a 'doormat' in a relationship, ensuring that you are valued and treated with the respect you deserve.

1. Recognize Your Worth

The first step in avoiding the doormat syndrome is recognizing your inherent worth. Understand that you deserve to be treated with respect and dignity. Reflect on your positive qualities, strengths, and what you bring to a relationship. This self-awareness helps build confidence and prevents you from settling for less than you deserve. Engage in positive self-talk and surround yourself with supportive individuals who affirm your value.

2. Set Clear Boundaries

Setting boundaries is essential in any relationship. Clearly define what behaviors are acceptable and what are not. Communicate these boundaries to your partner from the beginning and be consistent in enforcing them. Boundaries are not about controlling the other person but about protecting your well-being and ensuring mutual respect. Remember, it's okay to say no and prioritize your needs.

3. Communicate Effectively

Effective communication is the cornerstone of a healthy relationship. Express your feelings, needs, and concerns openly and honestly. Use "I" statements to communicate how certain actions affect you, rather than blaming or accusing your partner. For example, say "I feel hurt when you ignore my calls" instead of "You never answer my calls." This approach fosters understanding and cooperation rather than defensiveness.

4. Practice Self-Care

Taking care of yourself is crucial to maintaining self-respect and confidence. Engage in activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul. Whether it's exercising, pursuing hobbies, or spending time with loved ones, self-care helps you stay grounded and reinforces the message that your well-being matters. When you prioritize yourself, you are less likely to tolerate disrespect or neglect from others.

5. Seek Equal Partnership

A healthy relationship is built on equality. Both partners should have an equal say in decisions and contribute to the relationship's growth. Avoid falling into patterns where one partner consistently dominates or makes all the decisions. Strive for balance and ensure that both voices are heard and respected. Encourage open dialogue about shared responsibilities and make joint decisions whenever possible.

6. Avoid People-Pleasing

While it's natural to want to make your partner happy, consistently putting their needs above your own can lead to resentment and feeling like a doormat. Recognize that it's okay to prioritize your needs and desires. Avoid making sacrifices that compromise your well-being or values. Healthy relationships involve compromise, but they should not require you to abandon your needs or identity.

7. Trust Your Instincts

Your instincts are powerful indicators of how you truly feel about a situation. If something doesn't feel right, pay attention to that feeling. Trusting your instincts can help you recognize when you're being mistreated or taken for granted. Don't ignore red flags or dismiss your feelings. Address issues as they arise and seek resolution, rather than allowing them to fester and undermine your self-worth.

8. Build a Support System

Having a strong support system of friends and family can provide a valuable perspective on your relationship. They can offer advice, support, and encouragement when you need it. Share your experiences with trusted individuals who have your best interests at heart. Sometimes, an outside perspective can help you see things more clearly and make informed decisions about your relationship.

9. Develop Assertiveness Skills

Assertiveness involves standing up for yourself in a respectful and confident manner. It's about expressing your needs and opinions clearly without being aggressive. Practice assertiveness by expressing your thoughts and feelings openly, using "I" statements, and maintaining eye contact. Being assertive helps you maintain your self-respect and ensures that your voice is heard in the relationship.

10. Seek Professional Help

If you find it challenging to implement these changes on your own, consider seeking help from a therapist or counselor. A professional can provide guidance, support, and strategies to help you develop healthier relationship patterns. Therapy can also help you address any underlying issues that contribute to feeling like a doormat and build your confidence and self-esteem.

It is essential to remember that a healthy relationship is built on mutual respect, understanding, and equality. By implementing these tips, you can ensure that you are valued and treated with the respect you deserve in your relationships.