Everyone on earth has a need for validation. And by validation, I mean a need to “check” the accuracy or validity of who you believe you are as a human being on this earth. As I have gotten older and been exposed to more adult challenges, I have learned we all have a need to be validated.
Throughout my life I have sought to be validated by my parents. I have sought validation from my teachers at school or my coaches in sports. I have looked for validation from my church leaders, friends and even my wife. The biggest place I’ve sought for validation is at work where I’m looking for validation from my manager, team, or organization.
Well diversified validation is healthy and useful but has not been fulfilling to me when I have my shaky moments and doubt who I am and the value I bring to the world. If your primary source of validation comes from one place then beware – things will crumble in the future and you will have serious work to do to re-ground yourself in who you are and what you are here for.
In my exploration I have found that the only validation that I can always rely upon and that will always be consistent is that from Heaven. It is my relationship with my Father in Heaven that anchors my identity. I know that I am a son of God, and he has a work for me to do. It is in this identity that I find deep meaning, purpose, and strength. This is the type of connection that can bring power to my life.
Not everyone that will read this will share my religious views and that’s okay. You do not have to share my views to be able to reflect on your own life and evaluate where you get your validation from.
Ask yourself today, what is the primary source of strength and validation? What would happen if it went away? Where can I find anchors in my identity that will never change?
I hope this was a good exercise for you and has introduced deep reflection. We all need this to be able to offer the world the best that we have and share our contributions to make this world a better place.
