Validation & Self-Esteem

Practicing Healthy Validation and Self-Esteem

Seeking External validation often stems from insecurities and lack of self-esteem. This causes an individual to feel valued based on other people’s acknowledgment, acceptance, appreciation and affection. However, this type of validation is completely out of our control and often causes distress and desperation.

Practicing Internal Validation allows us to fully embrace ourselves as we are and processing our thoughts and feelings in the experiences we have.

Validating Communication is not just about the types of conversations we have with others, it’s more importantly the type of communication we have with ourselves and about ourselves.

Validating Behaviours involves taking the opportunity to be considerate of the thoughts and feelings expressed and taking the necessary actions to correct the situation, circumstances and behaviours that are harmful/hurtful to ourselves or others.

If we can come to validate our own thoughts and feelings, we will become more understanding, considerate and respectful of other people’s thoughts and feelings as well.

This builds self-esteem and allows us to value ourselves in a healthy manner—This means getting to know and understand ourselves as we value who we are and wish to become as a person, partner, parent, family member, friend, colleague etc.