The constant search for the approval of others is a common phenomenon in today's society. From a young age, we are taught the importance of pleasing others and receiving praise and external validation. However, this excessive need for approval can have negative effects on our mental health and emotional well-being. In this article, we will explore the reasons why it is essential to stop always seeking the approval of others and how we can begin to build self-esteem based on our own worth.
The origin of seeking approval
The need to constantly seek the approval of others has its roots in various aspects of our lives, from childhood to adulthood. In childhood, we are often conditioned to behave in certain ways to gain the love and attention of our parents and other significant adults. These behavioral patterns are reinforced over time as we seek validation in our interactions with friends, co-workers, and on social media.
In addition, today's society encourages constant comparison with others. through social networks and the media. We are exposed to a constant avalanche of images and messages that tell us how we should be to be accepted and valued. This social pressure can lead us to seek the approval of others as a means of fitting into a mold pre-established by society.
The negative effects of always seeking external approval
The constant search External approval can have detrimental effects on our mental health and emotional well-being. When our self-worth depends on the approval of others, we become vulnerable to criticism and lack of acceptance. This can lead to feelings of anxiety, low self-esteem, and depression.
In addition, always seeking approval from others can lead to a lack of authenticity in our lives. We strive to be what others want us to be instead of being true to ourselves. This disconnection between our true identity and the image we try to project can generate internal conflicts and a feeling of emotional emptiness.
Another negative effect of depending on external approval is the loss of control over our own life. When we base our worth on what others think, we hand over power over our happiness and self-esteem to external factors that are beyond our control. This makes us vulnerable to manipulation and prevents us from developing a solid and lasting self-esteem.
The path to self-acceptance
Stop always seeking the approval of others is a gradual process that It requires introspection and self-discovery. The first step towards self-acceptance is to recognize that our worth does not depend on external approval, but on our own ability to love and value ourselves.
Cultivate internal self-esteem
To To build a solid and resilient self-esteem, it is essential to work on strengthening our self-acceptance and internal self-esteem. This involves recognizing our strengths and unique qualities, as well as accepting our weaknesses and areas for improvement without judging ourselves harshly.
It is important to remember that we are all imperfect beings and that making mistakes is part of the process of growth and learning. Learning to forgive ourselves and cultivate self-compassion allows us to free ourselves from the need to seek external validation to feel valuable and loved.
Establishing healthy boundaries
A fundamental part of stopping searching Approval from others is learning to set healthy boundaries in our relationships and in our interactions with the outside world. This involves identifying what is important to us and what values we want to uphold, even if that means disappointing others or going against social expectations.
Establishing clear boundaries allows us to protect our self-esteem and maintain our integrity. personal in situations where we might feel pressure to conform or please others. By learning to say "no" when necessary and prioritize our own needs and desires, we strengthen our self-confidence and emotional autonomy.
Cultivate authenticity
Authenticity is the key to free ourselves from the need to constantly seek the approval of others. Being authentic involves being true to oneself, expressing our emotions and opinions honestly and consistent with our values and beliefs. By acting from a place of authenticity, we free ourselves from the pressure to impress others and allow ourselves to be who we are, without fear of external judgment.
Cultivating authenticity requires courage and vulnerability, as it involves expose our true identity without masks or pretensions. However, the act of being authentic connects us with our deepest essence and allows us to experience a sense of freedom and fulfillment that goes beyond external approval.
Conclusions
In Conclusion, stopping always seeking the approval of others is a fundamental step to building solid self-esteem and a full and authentic life. By learning to value ourselves, set healthy boundaries, and cultivate authenticity, we can free ourselves from the need to seek external validation and begin to live according to our own inner truth.
Remember that your worth is not It depends on what others think, but on your ability to love yourself and accept yourself as you are. Trust in your intrinsic worth and your ability to shine with your own light, regardless of the external approval you may receive. You are enough just the way you are!