Overcome Powerless Nice Guy Feelings
“No More Mr. Nice Guy” Story 4 of 25
Today, I’m sharing a story from my childhood that shaped a lot of who I am today. Picture this: a young Charlie, nose firmly planted in the corner of the room. This wasn’t just any room; it was a room filled with the joyful sounds of a family gathering. Laughter, conversations, and the comforting presence of loved ones surrounded me, but I was stuck in my little corner of shame.
You see, one of the ways my parents disciplined me was by making me stand with my nose in the corner whenever I displeased them. Imagine a room with adjoining walls, and there I was, my nose literally touching the point where the walls met. My peripheral vision was blocked, I couldn’t see anything around me. I could hear everything—the laughter, the chit-chat—but I was completely isolated from it. I was in the room, but not part of it.
This particular instance that stands out happened during a family gathering. Aunts, uncles, cousins, grandparents—all the people I loved and looked forward to seeing were there. But instead of joining in the fun, I was made to stand in the corner.
I don’t even remember what I did to deserve it that time. It was a frequent enough punishment that the reason didn’t matter much anymore. What mattered was the feeling of being ostracized, of being told I was bad and needed to be excluded until someone else decided I could come back.
While the family carried on, I stood there, feeling a mix of shame and rejection. Some adults seemed uncomfortable with my punishment but didn’t intervene—after all, I wasn’t their child. My parents stood firm. This was their way of disciplining me, and they believed it was necessary.
Years later, as I look back on these moments with the insight I’ve gained from my journey of self-discovery and healing, I understand just how impactful they were. Standing in that corner, I learned to internalize shame. I learned that I had to behave a certain way to be accepted, to be “good enough.” I began writing down these unspoken rules in my mind: don’t upset others, don’t be yourself too much, always seek approval.
But here’s the thing—I’m not blaming my parents. They did what they thought was best at the time, just as we all do with the knowledge and resources we have. I’ve realized that everyone is doing their best, including me, even during those moments I regret. This understanding has been liberating.
In my adult life, especially through the men's work and personal development I've engaged in, I’ve learned to recognize and rewrite those old stories. I’ve learned that I am not bad. I can make choices for myself, I can be free from shame and fear, and I can decide who I want to be. This transformation didn’t happen overnight, but each step has brought me closer to living authentically and comfortably in my own skin.
If any of this resonates with you, know that you’re not alone. Many of us carry similar burdens from our past, shaped by the ways we were taught to seek approval and avoid rejection. But we have the power to change that narrative. We can choose new thoughts, new behaviors, and create the life we want.
If you’re ready to start rewriting your story, I’d love to help. Let’s have a conversation. Check the description below for a link to schedule a call with me. We can talk about what’s holding you back and how you can move forward into a life free from fear and shame.
An Invitation To Talk
This video isn't just about sharing my story; it's an invitation for you to embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing. If you're ready to step into a grounded, authentic version of yourself, free from the chains of past fears, I'm here to help. Schedule a one-on-one phone call with me to discuss your experiences, beliefs, and the steps you can take towards living a life where you feel whole, healthy, and happy.
Recommended Reading
I also highly recommend reading 'No More Mr. Nice Guy by Dr. Robert Glover. As you read, take note of what stands out to you. What resonates? What feels relevant in your own life? Once you've reflected on these insights, schedule a free private coaching call with me to discuss your notes and explore what changes you want to see in your life.
This video is part of a series of 25 untold 'No More Mr. Nice Guy' stories that could have easily been included in Dr. Glover's book. These are stories from my own life and childhood, shared to help men understand the significant impact of childhood events in the making of a "nice guy"—a role I played until I read 'No More Mr. Nice Guy' and began my recovery journey.
Ready to change your life?
Then take the next logical step.
SCHEDULE A "FREEDOM FROM" COACHING CALL
Schedule a free coaching call with me to share your story and discuss what you'd like be different in your relationships and life.
START THE NICE GUY STUDY COURSE
Take my Happy Man Coaching No More Mr. Nice Guy Course
The course includes private one-on-one coaching calls to help you understand the key concepts covered in the book, along with other important related concepts NOT covered in the No More Mr. Nice Guy book.
Until we talk again, be kind to yourself.
Much love, brother,
Charlie McKeever
Your Happy Man Coach
HappyManCoaching.com
"The very best thing you can do for the whole world is to make the most of yourself." – Wallace D. Wattles, 1903
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