Approval and Validation are two words that most of us aren’t strangers to. Because we’re constantly seeking approval and validation, from family, relatives, friends, peers and even strangers. This topic has intrigued me for a while and it got me thinking. I realized that we spend our entire lives in the quest for validation without even realizing it.

As toddlers, every clap, ever laughter told us that we were doing good and it egged us on to do better. As kids, we used to look to our parents for a smile or a nod that could be construed as a mark of approval.  We spent our entire school years trying to fit in, doing whatever it takes to be accepted. And our whole career and family life is spent trying to be liked and accepted, fearing criticism, yearning adulation and craving validation. Continue reading →