The Power of Self-Acknowledgment: How Journaling Transformed My Need for Validation

In life, I often feel that no matter how much praise we receive from others, true satisfaction comes only when we can acknowledge and appreciate ourselves. Without the ability to celebrate our own efforts and accomplishments, external validation becomes a fleeting comfort, leaving us perpetually unsatisfied.

I believe that if we rely solely on the approval of others, we’ll never feel truly fulfilled. No matter how many compliments we receive, there may always be a nagging sense of incompleteness. Over time, I learned to cheer myself on, even when no one else did. As a result, I no longer crave external validation. There was a time when I believed that without someone’s approval, I couldn’t be happy. But constantly seeking validation from others led to an endless cycle of emptiness.

Now, through journaling, I’ve found a way to motivate myself and find contentment. When I push myself to try new challenges or reflect on my growth, I can genuinely commend myself. This practice has allowed me to recognize that I no longer seek external approval, and I only realized this after years of consistently journaling.

I remember when I used to be active on social media. Back then, I was so sensitive to the number of likes and reactions my posts received. The anxiety of not getting enough engagement was exhausting and draining. Social media wasn’t a good fit for me, and it’s been years since I last posted. Surprisingly, I’ve found that I am perfectly content without the need for “likes.” I’ve become aware of just how much peace there is in not relying on that form of approval.

Ultimately, what I’ve learned is the importance of getting to know myself well enough to be able to support and praise who I am. Building a deep relationship with yourself—becoming your own best friend—means you don’t need external validation. This shift has significantly improved my mental health, and for me, maintaining a journaling practice has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

So, if there’s one message I want to share, it’s this: pursue the journey of knowing yourself well enough to be your own cheerleader. When you achieve that, the need for external validation fades away, replaced by a genuine sense of inner peace.

About Me: Hi, I’m Evolving Mind. Through this blog, I share my journey of self-discovery and mental well-being. Journaling has been a powerful tool for me, and I hope to inspire others to find their own path to peace and clarity.