Do you seek validation at work?
Look inward. That’s where you will find your worth.
Many of us seek validation at work. Most of us want to feel seen. We want to know we are valid and that our contributions are worthy. We want to feel worthy. At least, I know I do.
Even if we acknowledge our jobs do not define our worth, striving for recognition is normal.
Have you wondered why you seek validation?
I’ve been thinking about this a lot recently. Why do I want approval from my bosses and peers?
Perhaps, in my case, it stems from my childhood.
I only felt seen at home when I got good grades, behaved well, and followed the rules. My worth was linked to how I performed and how I acted. How I got validation was by doing things perfectly.
My father had high standards and wanted me to be the best. From violin to dance to basketball, he expected excellence. The pressure to stand out made me competitive.
On the one hand, I learned about discipline and responsibility. On the other, I began comparing myself to others obsessively. My insecurities grew and grew, and so did my jealousy of others.
Furthermore, I was heavily punished for my mistakes, regardless of how big or small they were. Today, I struggle…
