It’s a common scenario – some women always seem to be taken for granted, no matter how much they give or how hard they try.

But why is it so?

Often, it’s not about the people around them, but rather certain subtle behaviors they unknowingly exhibit.

In this piece, we’re diving into these behavioral patterns.

Though subtle, they have a powerful impact on how others perceive and treat these women.

By recognizing these patterns, we can begin to make the changes necessary for healthier relationships and interactions.

Remember, change starts with awareness. Let’s get started!

1) Over-accommodating

The desire to please and help others is a beautiful trait. But when it becomes a constant pattern, it can lead to being taken for granted.

Many women who find themselves in this predicament often display a behavior of over-accommodating.

They go out of their way, stretch their limits, and sacrifice their own needs to meet others’ expectations.

Think about it. If you’re always bending over backward to fulfill every request or need of those around you, they may start to expect it.

It becomes the norm, not something extraordinary.

This isn’t to say that being helpful or considerate is wrong. But remember – it’s equally important to respect your own boundaries and needs.

Recognizing this behavior is the first step in breaking the cycle.

By learning to say ‘no’ when necessary and protecting your own time and energy, you can begin to cultivate relationships that appreciate your efforts – not just expect them.

2) Not voicing their needs

I’ve seen this in my own life. I was always the “go-with-the-flow” type, not wanting to rock the boat or cause any inconvenience.

If friends wanted to meet at a far-off coffee shop, I’d agree, even if it meant an hour’s drive for me.

If colleagues needed me to pick up extra work, I’d say yes, even if it meant staying late.

I thought being flexible and easy-going was my strength.

But over time, I realized people began to take my willingness for granted.

They assumed I was okay with everything because I never voiced my needs or preferences.

Looking back, I understand that my silence was seen as consent. It told people that my needs were secondary.

It’s a subtle behavior, but it has a significant impact on how others treat us.

Voicing your needs isn’t about being selfish or demanding; it’s about respect – for both you and the people in your life.

When we communicate our needs and preferences clearly and assertively, we allow others to understand and respect our boundaries better.

3) Constantly apologizing

Did you know that studies show women tend to apologize more than men do?

This isn’t because women are more prone to making mistakes, but rather because they often feel more responsible for harmony in relationships and social situations.

There’s a subtle behavior that many women who get taken for granted fall into – constantly saying sorry.

This can range from apologizing for things they have no control over, to saying sorry when expressing their own thoughts and opinions.

The issue here is that constant apologies can undermine your confidence and allow others to perceive you as less assertive.

It sends a message that your voice, your space, or your needs are an inconvenience to others, which is far from the truth.

Apologies have their place, but it’s vital to use them judiciously.

You have every right to express your thoughts, take up space, and make mistakes without constantly feeling the need to apologize.

4) Always being available

Availability is a double-edged sword.

While being there for others is a wonderful characteristic, too much availability can lead to being taken for granted.

Many women who often find themselves in this situation fall into the habit of always being available.

Whether it’s late-night calls from friends, last-minute requests from colleagues, or being the go-to person for family emergencies, they never say no.

The problem is that always being available can set an expectation that your time and attention are limitless.

It leaves little room for people to respect your time or consider your schedule.

It’s essential to learn that it’s okay not to be available all the time. Allow yourself the freedom to prioritize your needs.

This not only helps you maintain a healthy balance but also teaches others to value your time.

5) Keeping emotions bottled up

I remember a time when I held onto a grudge for weeks, not because I wanted to, but because I was afraid of confrontation.

I thought expressing my feelings would make me appear weak or over-emotional. 

I kept my emotions bottled up, expecting the person who upset me would somehow realize their mistake.

What happened was the complete opposite. My silence was interpreted as acceptance, and the behavior continued.

It took me a while to understand that by not expressing my feelings, I was indirectly allowing myself to be taken for granted.

Keeping emotions bottled up is a subtle behavior many women display.

They fear that expressing their feelings may lead to conflict or be perceived as dramatic.

But remember, your feelings are valid, and you have every right to express them.

By openly communicating your feelings and setting boundaries, you can prevent misunderstandings and ensure that your needs are met.

6) Neglecting self-care

Another subtle behavior often displayed by women who get taken for granted is neglecting their own self-care.

In an attempt to tend to everyone else’s needs, they often forget to take care of their own.

This could mean skipping meals to complete work, compromising sleep for late-night talks with friends, or simply not taking the time to relax and rejuvenate.

While selflessness is admirable, neglecting your own needs can lead to burnout and resentment.

It also sets a precedent for others that your well-being can be compromised.

It’s not selfish to prioritize your health and well-being.

By taking care of yourself, you’re better equipped to care for others and maintain healthier relationships.

You’re also setting an example that your needs are important and should be respected.

7) Accepting less than they deserve

The most crucial behavior that women who get taken for granted display is accepting less than they deserve.

They settle for less in relationships, at work, and in their personal lives, believing that it’s better than conflict or being alone.

But here’s the thing – you deserve respect, kindness, and appreciation just like anyone else.

Accepting anything less can lead to a cycle where you’re constantly undervalued and overlooked.

Breaking this pattern isn’t always easy, but it starts with recognizing your worth.

When you believe in your value and stand up for it, others will begin to see it too.

Final thoughts: The power of self-awareness

The subconscious behaviors we exhibit often have profound effects on our relationships and how others perceive us.

For women frequently taken for granted, recognizing these subtle behaviors is the first step towards change.

These behaviors aren’t faults or flaws, but patterns that have been learned over time, and like any pattern, they can be unlearned too.

Each woman has the power to redefine her narrative and break free from being taken for granted.

It begins with self-awareness, acknowledging her worth, and setting healthy boundaries.

Every individual deserves respect and appreciation in their relationships, personal or professional.

It’s about striking a balance between being generous and accommodating without compromising one’s own needs and self-respect.

As women, as humans, we have the strength to rewrite our stories.

It starts with recognition, leads to change, and ends with healthier interactions and relationships.

That is the power of self-awareness.