People-pleasing, self-abandonment, and unmasking are deeply connected, especially for late-diagnosed neurodivergent folk. In this solo episode of Divergent Paths, Dr. Regina breaks down how people-pleasing develops as a survival strategy, why it often leads to chronic self-abandonment, and what it really takes to unmask after years of shaping yourself around other people’s expectations.

You’ll learn:

• A simple definition of people-pleasing and how it functions
• What self-abandonment looks like and why it becomes automatic
• Why unmasking often feels scary, disorienting, or selfish (spoiler: it’s not)
• Three practical strategies to help you reconnect with your needs and rebuild trust with yourself

If you’ve spent most of your life trying to keep the peace, be "easy-going,” or avoid rejection, this episode will help you understand where those patterns came from and how to gently begin to change them.

Sign up for N.E.R.D. Notes and get weekly nerdy neurodivergent insights!

Book a Clarity Call with Regina

About Dr. Regina McMenomy PhD,

Regina is an educator, consultant, and founder of Divergent Paths Consulting. With over two decades of experience in higher education and instructional design, she now helps individuals create more inclusive, neurodivergent-affirming spaces. A late-diagnosed ADHDer herself, Regina blends academic insight, personal experience, and a healthy dose of nerdy joy to help others unmask, heal, and thrive.