Do We Really Need Validation?

Validation

It is something that many of us seek after. Some of us seek it from our parents, teachers, friends, authority figures, love ones, spouses, or any other person who’s opinion we highly respect. The problem with seeking validation is that when we seek if from people, we will never be satisfied. Why? Because validation can go one of two ways: Either you will get it, and it will cause you to want it more, or you will NOT get it and it will cause you to want it more. Do you see what I’m getting at?  

Why is it so important for us to obtain the praise or approval from people? Well, that is a question you may have to look deep with in yourself to figure out. Needing to be praised for a job well done may stem from a personal insecurity. Perhaps not receiving love from the person(s) you required it from the most. Maybe it comes from your own thoughts of feeling like you have failed in some area of your life. Maybe you are a people pleaser, and the thought of letting someone down is a hard thing to stomach.  

Whatever the reason is, you need to know that seeking validation and approval can become a “drug” that is hard to kick. If you go so long without that one solace and it causes you to seek even harder for it. That may be a major problem you need to address within yourself.

I am a Christian woman. Christ has helped me to stop looking for validation and approval in others. I find my validation in Him and only Him. And, when I forget, He gentle tugs on my heart to remind me where my validation comes from. But not all the people who follow me or read my blog are Christians. Some of them may not even believe in God. So, I will leave you all with this, rather saved or not, Christian or not: if you find that you need approval or validation from people too often, if validation is a “drug” that you seek continually and you can’t go without it, you may need to search hard for the root of your problem. Speak to someone who can help you find ways to be completely satisfied with who you are as long as you are giving the best of yourself to all the things you put your hand and mind too.