Seeking approval from others is a natural and healthy part of human interaction. However, when the need for external validation becomes excessive and detrimental to our self-esteem and well-being, it can be identified as approval addiction. In this blog, we will explore what approval addiction is, how it manifests, and provide strategies to overcome it, ultimately allowing you to embrace your authenticity and self-worth.
Approval addiction, also known as people-pleasing or seeking external validation, is a persistent and often obsessive desire to gain the approval, acceptance, and affirmation of others. Individuals with this addiction base their self-worth on the opinions and judgments of others, often at the expense of their own needs and values.
Signs of Approval Addiction
Chronic People-Pleasing: A constant need to please others, often at the expense of your own well-being or values.
Fear of Rejection: An intense fear of rejection, criticism, or disapproval from others, leading to anxiety and stress.
Lack of Assertiveness: Difficulty asserting your own needs, wants, and boundaries in interpersonal relationships.
Low Self-Esteem: A shaky self-esteem that relies on external validation, making you susceptible to feelings of inadequacy or unworthiness when approval is not given.
Over-Apologizing: Excessive apologizing, even when not at fault, to avoid potential disapproval.
How to Overcome Approval Addiction
Self-Awareness: The first step in overcoming approval addiction is self-awareness. Recognize that you may have a tendency to seek external validation excessively.
Examine Your Values: Understand your own values, beliefs, and priorities. Clarify what truly matters to you and what you stand for.
Set Healthy Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries in your relationships to protect your well-being and values. Learning to say “no” when necessary is crucial.
Challenge Negative Self-Talk: Practice self-compassion and challenge the negative self-talk that results from fearing disapproval. Recognize your inherent worth.
Seek Professional Help: If approval addiction significantly impacts your life and well-being, consider therapy or counseling to work through underlying issues and develop healthier coping strategies.
Embrace Authenticity: Strive to be your authentic self. Recognize that not everyone will like or approve of you, and that’s okay.
Practice Assertiveness: Learn to express your needs, wants, and feelings assertively but respectfully. This can improve communication and lead to healthier relationships.
Celebrate Individuality: Understand that we are all unique with our own perspectives and preferences. Embrace your individuality and encourage others to do the same.
Focus on Self-Validation: Work on building self-esteem that is internally validated. Find satisfaction in your own accomplishments and values, regardless of external praise.
Overcoming approval addiction is a transformative journey toward self-acceptance and self-worth. It involves recognizing the importance of authenticity and setting boundaries that protect your well-being. By embracing your individuality and relying on internal validation, you can free yourself from the shackles of excessive people-pleasing and fear of disapproval. Remember that your worth is intrinsic and does not rely on others’ opinions; it’s a reflection of your unique qualities and the value you bring to the world.
