val·i·da·tion

ˌvaləˈdāSH(ə)n/

noun
  1. the action of checking or proving the validity or accuracy of something.
    “the technique requires validation in controlled trials”
    • the action of making or declaring something legally or officially acceptable.
      “new courses, subject to validation, include an MSc in Urban Forestry”
    • recognition or affirmation that a person or their feelings or opinions are valid or worthwhile.
      “they have exaggerated needs for acceptance and validation”

How does your best friend listen to you? Do you feel heard and understood? If you do, what a blessing! They are offering you the invaluable gift of validation.

And why do we need validation? Because, as the Lundberg’s say, “the universal need within each of us (is to feel that)– I am of worth, my feelings matter, and someone really cares about me.”

When we listen, we give this gift.

Practice, practice, practice, practice, practice, practice, practice…..

Jacque

 

 

 

 

 

“I don’t have the power to solve other people’s problems.  By validating their feelings appropriately I empower them to be their own problem solver.”