Have you ever wondered why people open up to you so easily? Why you always end up being the listener, the comforter, the go-to person? Let’s explore this in today’s podcast.

Welcome to I LISTEN SPACE! I’m Chiradeep, your host, and today’s topic is “Being Approachable: A Boon or a Bane?”

Not everyone has the ability to make others feel comfortable. It’s a rare quality, one that builds trust and deep connections. Think about it—how hard is it to share your struggles with someone who seems distant or unapproachable? On the other hand, how relieving is it when you find someone who listens without judgment? It’s the kind of presence that makes doctors, counselors, and coaches truly effective.

And what does it take to be that person? A little humility, a warm smile, a gentle attitude, and most importantly, the ability to listen patiently rather than jumping in with advice.

But as much as this quality is a blessing, it can also feel like a burden at times.

There are moments when being approachable comes at a cost. People overstep, invade your space, and take your availability for granted. Instead of feeling valued, you start feeling drained. And when that happens, the question arises—why? Is it because we failed to set boundaries? Or is it because people just assume we’re always available?

That’s when we need to find the right balance. How do you stay open without feeling overwhelmed?

For starters, setting boundaries is essential—and doing so without guilt. Being kind doesn’t mean being available 24/7. It’s also important to check in with yourself. Are you emotionally drained? Are you giving more than you have to offer? Not everyone deserves unlimited access to your time and energy, and recognizing who respects your space is key. And then there’s the power of a simple, polite "no." Saying no isn’t rude—it’s an act of self-respect.

At the end of the day, being approachable should feel like a strength, not a burden. And trust me, it is possible to be warm, kind, and welcoming without feeling exhausted.

If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to follow I LISTEN SPACE on Spotify for more! Till the next episode—take care and goodbye!