Self-validation is a crucial aspect of maintaining mental and emotional well-being. It involves recognising and affirming your feelings, thoughts, and experiences without seeking external approval or validation from others. In this blog, we discuss what self-validation looks like, so you can make it part of your day-to-day.
1. What I’m feeling is valid: It's essential to recognise that your emotions are valid and worthy of acknowledgement. Whether you're experiencing joy, sadness, anger, or anxiety, your feelings are a natural response to your experiences and circumstances. By allowing yourself to feel your emotions as and when they arise, you ensure that you process the good, the bad and the ugly. The alternative? Bottling it all up until it comes out at the wrong person, at the wrong time…
2. I am enough: Remind yourself that you are inherently worthy and deserving of love and respect just as you are. You don't need to earn your worth through external achievements or validation from others. Embrace your uniqueness and imperfections, knowing that they contribute to your authenticity and individuality.
3. Tomorrow is a new day: No matter how challenging today may have been, tomorrow offers a fresh start and new opportunities. Embrace the possibility of growth, learning, and renewal with each new day. Allow yourself to release any mistakes or regrets from the working day and approach tomorrow with optimism and resilience.
4. Taking time out doesn’t make me lazy: In need of a duvet day? Rather than feeling guilty, listen to your body and allow yourself to rest and recover when needed. Taking breaks and practising self-care isn't a sign of laziness but rather a vital aspect of maintaining your well-being. If you don’t take time to rejuvenate then you will burnout and need more time off in the long run anyway!
5. Today was hard: Acknowledge the challenges and difficulties you faced today without minimising or dismissing them. It's okay to admit when things are tough and to permit yourself to feel whatever emotions arise in response to those challenges. By validating your struggles, you empower yourself to seek support, explore coping strategies, and cultivate resilience.
6. All I can do is try my best: Recognise that you are doing the best you can with the resources, skills, and knowledge you have at this moment. Embrace a mindset of self-compassion rather than self-criticism, knowing that you're continually growing and evolving. Focus on progress rather than perfection, and celebrate your efforts and achievements, no matter how small they may seem.
Remember, you are your biggest supporter - so make it count!
Is work starting to impact your mental health? Samaritans have a free telephone service where you can talk to someone about what’s on your mind: 116 123.
Commentaires