Embracing Self-Validation - A Path to Personal Empowerment
Prakash Narayanan
Strategic Advisor & Consulting Head | Convenor at SSD Sub Committee , Bureau of Indian Standards, GOI
In today's society, the pursuit of external validation can often overshadow our sense of self-worth. Many individuals find themselves seeking approval from others, whether through social media likes, praise from colleagues, or recognition from friends. However, embracing self-validation can lead to a more fulfilling and empowered life. This article explores the concept of self-validation, its benefits, and practical steps to incorporate it into both professional and personal contexts, complete with relatable examples.
Understanding Self-Validation
Self-validation is the practice of recognizing and affirming your own thoughts, callings, emotions, and experiences without relying on external feedback. This internal affirmation allows you to appreciate your intrinsic value and enhances emotional well-being.
The Benefits of Self-Validation
Professional Example: After a challenging presentation at work, instead of waiting for your boss’s feedback to feel good about your performance, you acknowledge that delivering the presentation was a significant achievement in itself.
Personal Example: Following a difficult conversation with a friend, rather than seeking their reassurance that you handled it well, you recognize that expressing your feelings was important regardless of their reaction.
Professional Example: If you receive constructive criticism on a project, instead of feeling defeated, you remind yourself that feedback is an opportunity for growth and affirm your commitment to improvement.
Personal Example: After experiencing a setback in a personal goal, such as failing to stick to a fitness routine, you acknowledge that setbacks are part of the process and reaffirm your dedication to your health journey.
Professional Example: When a colleague receives praise for a project you contributed to, instead of feeling envious or overlooked, you remind yourself of the value you added and celebrate your role in the team’s success.
Personal Example: If a social media post doesn’t garner as much attention as you hoped, you focus on the joy it brought you to create it rather than seeking validation through likes or comments.
Professional Example: When faced with a career decision, such as whether to accept a new job offer, you reflect on what aligns with your values rather than solely seeking opinions from friends or family.
Personal Example: If considering whether to pursue a new hobby or interest, you evaluate how it fits into your life goals rather than worrying about how others might perceive your choice.
Professional Example: After completing a challenging task at work, instead of criticizing yourself for not doing it perfectly, you acknowledge the effort you put in and affirm that doing your best is what matters.
Personal Example: When facing self-doubt about your abilities in a new activity (like painting or cooking), you remind yourself that learning is part of the journey and celebrate small victories along the way.
Professional Example: In meetings, when sharing ideas or opinions, focus on expressing your true thoughts rather than what you think others want to hear.
Personal Example: When engaging with friends or family, share your genuine feelings instead of conforming to their expectations or opinions.
领英推荐
Steps to Cultivate Self-Validation
Example: Notice when you seek validation—like feeling anxious before presenting an idea in a meeting—and reflect on why that is.
Example: Spend a few minutes each day in meditation or deep breathing to become aware of your feelings without judgment.
Example: Create affirmations such as “I am capable” or “My feelings are valid,” and repeat them daily.
Example: Instead of comparing yourself to colleagues’ achievements at work, define what success means for you personally—like achieving work-life balance or mastering a new skill.
Example: Keep a journal where you write down daily accomplishments or moments when you felt proud of yourself.
Example: Designate specific times for checking social media rather than scrolling throughout the day to reduce the urge for external validation.
Example: Surround yourself with friends who encourage self-acceptance and celebrate your achievements without competition.
Example: If you make an error at work or during a personal project, instead of berating yourself, analyze what went wrong and how you can improve next time.
Daily Life Examples of Self-Validation
Conclusion
Releasing the need for external validation is a transformative journey toward self-empowerment in both professional and personal life. By practicing self-validation daily, individuals can enhance their emotional well-being, build resilience, and cultivate authentic relationships. This journey may require effort and introspection but leads to greater confidence and fulfillment in life. Remember that your worth is inherent; it exists independently of others' opinions. Embrace this journey of self-discovery and celebrate the unique contributions you bring to the world.