This is an honest inquiry as to the dilemma with the term....if indeed someone feels their "true" *gag...cuz i hate that term* lol submissiveness is shown in being weak, completely reliant upon a Master/Mistress, being there solely to serve, then why should the term doormat be looked upon as a slight? Again, as others have stated I think the honest concern shown by most in the "lifestyle" is when someone, anyone is making concessions not by choice but out of such a lack of inner strength as to not know what they want or need. To be a doormat because it is what you need and what your partner desires is VERY different from being a "doormat" because you believe you derserve nothing more and have no worth, it fulfils no need, and leaves them feeling empty. I think very few who are "truly" in the lifestyle (rolls eyes at the horrid need to label) look down upon any that have found that true place where they find fulfillment in their role.
Again I hope that this is seen as honestly meant...as an honest inquiry