It is easy to fall into the trap of seeking validation from others, especially in the world we live in today, where social media "likes" feel like applause. Constantly looking for approval is exhausting and leaves you feeling insecure and dependent on external opinions.
The question is: Are you ready to break free from this cycle?
If you are, here's how you can start valuing yourself more.
Understand Why You Seek Validation
To overcome any challenge, you must first understand it. You must reflect on why you seek validation from others.
Is it because you're unsure of your abilities?
Or do you feel incomplete without others' approval?
In her memoir "I Call Bullshit," Becca Christensen discusses how, while trying to distract herself from the internal turmoil she was experiencing, she found external validation satisfying. She realized that if she received positive feedback for her behavior, nobody truly understood how messed up she felt. Her plan seemed to be working: as far as everyone else was concerned, she was on the "good" side of normal.
Becca's life to that point had been filled with challenges, especially where her parents were concerned, mainly due to her father's disrespect for her privacy. He would intrude on their personal spaces, like the bathroom, without regard for her feelings, which forced Becca to find ways to avoid him.
Amid the turmoil at home, and perhaps driven by it, Becca sought validation wherever it could be found. The situation with her father left her feeling worthless and invalid. It prompted her to search for ways to reclaim her sense of self-worth.
To feel validated at home, Becca tried to be the obedient, well-behaved daughter her parents sought.
Learn To Validate Yourself
External approval often drives our self-worth in today's world. It's because we doubt our abilities and think we are worthless unless someone tells us otherwise, which Becca struggled with. Thus comes the reason for learning to validate yourself, which is a powerful and essential skill.
How can one practice self-validation? By acknowledging and accepting feelings without judgment, noticing accomplishments, and trusting themselves.
You can cultivate a healthier self-image and a more stable sense of identity by mastering self-validation. You will build inner confidence and resilience – slowly reducing dependence on external validation, which can be inconsistent and fleeting.
It empowered her to navigate life with greater emotional autonomy and strength while developing a more profound sense of self-worth.
"I Call Bullshit" is Becca's memoir which delves into her experiences and the lessons she learned along the way. Through her story, Becca illustrates the transformative power of reclaiming your self-worth and prioritizing the most essential relationship—the one with yourself.
Grab your copy today!
