Are you validating yourself? (Thursday Thoughts: 16 May, 2024)

Are you relying too much on external praise to feel good about yourself? In this issue of Thursday Thoughts I’m talking about the benefits of internal validation and how cultivating your own approval can make you more resilient, confident, and fulfilled. Ready to start feeling better about yourself? Then let’s talk!


Hello Talkers! 👋🗣😃

Have you ever found yourself seeking approval from others before you can give yourself a pat on the back? It can be really easy to fall into the trap of letting external validation determine your worth, especially in our crazy world full of social media likes and comments (because who doesn’t spend a lot of time online, right?!).

But here’s the problem with that: relying solely on outside affirmation can leave you feeling empty and constantly chasing the next round of applause. So, instead of effectively measuring your worth by whether or not other people rate you, how about shifting your focus inward and exploring the value of internal validation? Because it makes a huge difference to your mindset!

When we look to ourselves for a sense of worth, instead of from others, we’re actually strengthening our resilience and cultivating an enduring sense of self-esteem that doesn’t just crumble at the first sign of criticism. By recognising our achievements, and practicing self-compassion, we gain the ability to navigate life’s inevitable challenges with confidence and grace. Think of it like your own personal cheer squad, minus the pom-poms and problematic stereotyping.

Of course, this doesn’t mean that we should just ignore the encouragement and support of others; it’s wonderful to share our successes and be uplifted by friends, family, colleagues, supporters, etc. But when our primary source of validation comes from within, we’re able to enjoy external praise without being dependent on it.

So here’s my tip of the week: Take a moment to reflect on something you’ve accomplished lately, no matter how small, and give yourself a mental high-five. Make a habit of recognising your wins, offering yourself some encouragement, and acknowledging that your own approval matters most… because you’re worth it! And if you’d like an ‘extra credit’ suggestion, grab a jar and each time you accomplish something write it on a slip of paper then put it in the jar… every couple of months, or whenever you need a boost, empty out your jar and absorb all the good vibes within!

Until our next talk,

Jeremy 😃


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4 thoughts on “Are you validating yourself? (Thursday Thoughts: 16 May, 2024)

  1. Jeremy
    Great work on your weekly podcasts they are very informative.
    I am in the construction industry in QLD and the suicide rate is rising.
    I am a volunteer with the RFS ( Rural Fire Service) and the SES (State Emergency Service) and through them acquired an undergraduate degree in mental health which is helping me with working with guys on my site plus just helping people with the trauma of disasters that we get called out to.
    As I travel a fair bit to work and home each day I have been listening to your podcasts instead of the radio.
    As I am a tradie getting the university stuff to sink in takes a bit of extra works, Do you help with chatting to people like me or is it just your writing and podcasts you do?
    Great effort keep you amazing work!
    Regards
    Anthony

    Sent from Outlook for iOShttps://aka.ms/o0ukef

    1. Hi Anthony, Thanks for your feedback about my work, I really appreciate it! And that’s great what you’re doing with your mental health stuff with the RFS and SES. Yes I do offer coaching; email me at info@jeremygodwin.com.au or fill out this form https://letstalkaboutmentalhealth.com.au/contact-2/ and let me know what you’re hoping to achieve then we can discuss from there. Please note I only work Mon-Thu so I don’t check emails over the weekend. All the best!

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