If you're a codependent or you have low self esteem and your people pleaser.... You will often do nice things for other people or animals or the planet just to get attention and validation.. Sometimes you'll do it for your family you'll be the one that throws the party you'll be the 1 that is fun to bring the grandkids to all so you can get validation. Out of balance it is a form of narcissism.. Is it harmful? Well mostly to the person who's doing it.. But it can be harmful to others who get close to you and find out you're not really the person you always pretend to be in public in order to win validation and attention.