Doormat

A person who is easily taken advantage of or mistreated; someone who passively accepts abuse, insults, or demands from others. Often characterized by a lack of assertiveness, a strong desire to please, and a fear of conflict, a doormat allows others to walk all over them, prioritizing the needs and wants of others above their own. This behavior can stem from low self-esteem, a need for approval, or a learned pattern of submission. The metaphorical 'doormat' suggests a person is used, disregarded, and trodden upon. They frequently sacrifice their own well-being for the sake of maintaining relationships or avoiding confrontation.

Doormat meaning with examples

• Sarah was consistently asked to cover her coworkers' shifts and take on extra tasks, but she never said no. She'd become a doormat at the office, always putting her own needs last. Everyone relied on her willingness to go above and beyond. Ultimately, she suffered from burnout because she could not say no to her co-workers.
• After years of supporting her emotionally draining partner, Emily realized she'd become a doormat in the relationship. She allowed him to control her finances, dictate her social life, and constantly criticize her, all while she remained quiet hoping to avoid a fight. Her self-worth eroded, leading to unhappiness and resentment.
• The student, afraid of receiving a bad grade, would complete all her classmates’ work. They were taking advantage of her need to please, turning her into a doormat. She lost her own educational time while supporting her colleagues. Consequently, she became overwhelmed. After a talk with a mentor she decided to put her own needs first.
• During the negotiations, the company's unwillingness to stand firm with its decisions turned it into a doormat. Its leadership kept conceding to the demands of its competitors in order to keep some type of relationship. As a consequence, they lost their market share and reputation within their sector.
• Despite her friends' constant belittling remarks and demands for favors, Jessica continued to be friendly and accommodating, functioning as their emotional doormat. She never confronted them on her own behalf to maintain their friendship. The effect on her was a gradual breakdown in her own sense of self-respect.