Tell yourself you’re awesome! It’s worth it :)
Introduction
To truly grasp the concept of internal validation, we must also understand its counterpart: external validation. In essence, validation is the recognition that our feelings are valid and important. External validation, as the name suggests, comes from others, often through compliments or positive interactions. However, it's important to note that external validation is often fleeting and relies on external sources. In stark contrast, internal validation is a self-sustaining force that comes from within.
Internal validation is a state where we embrace our feelings without judgment. It's a powerful strategy that enables us to navigate emotions better. By not internalizing shame, we create a safer space within ourselves, fostering more self-acceptance.
How We Can Implement Internal Validation
Positive affirmations have the ability to help individuals increase their levels of confidence and image of self-worth through mantras and phrases. These can be as short as a minute a day. Some examples could be:
“I am worthy of love and respect just as I am.”
“I accept myself unconditionally”
“I believe in myself and my ability to succeed in my goals”
“I choose happiness and joy in every moment”
“I radiate positivity and bring positive energy into my life”
“I face challenges with courage and determination”
“I am creative and talented with unique gifts to share”
“I care about the positive aspects of my life and will value gratitude every day”
Practicing mindfulness and gratitude can have huge effects on promoting internal validation. Gratitude journals to ourselves, gratitude letters or visits to others that make your life have meaning, and even meditation can help you experience more gratitude in your life. (And check out our blog post for more).
Celebrating successes is critical in understanding self-worth, a key component of internal validation. This enables individuals to boost self-esteem, affirm their progress, provide validation for their effort, and counteract any negative thoughts that come up.
Validating emotions can also improve internal validation. This prevents individuals from judging their emotions and enables them to embrace them for further internal validation. Additionally, it fosters better emotional well-being. It can also improve self-esteem and encourage us to become more effective in our communication.
Setting goals is another great way to promote internal validation by giving individuals things to work towards that are achievable. The trick here is ensuring that the goals are, in fact, achievable. This gives individuals a sense of achievement and purpose and enables personal growth to continue.
Conclusion
All in all, internal validation is critical in promoting levels of self-esteem, resilience, autonomy, emotional well-being, fulfillment, motivation, and empowerment. Taking the time to create positive affirmations each day, celebrate successes, validate emotions, and practice gratitude can ensure that our brains stay happy and healthy :)
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