A man died believing he was a failure.
His work was misunderstood and dismissed as childish.
He spent his life pouring his heart onto canvas, yet only sold one piece.
Today, his name is synonymous with genius.
His art hangs in the world’s most prestigious museums.
That man was Vincent van Gogh.
But he never saw his own brilliance.
The Human Need for Validation
We’re wired to seek approval.
It starts in childhood: a parent’s praise, a teacher’s nod.
Validation feels like a warm light that tells us, “You’re enough.”
But here’s the problem:
When we rely solely on external validation, we become its prisoner.
A lack of likes on a post feels like rejection.
Criticism becomes a personal attack.
And worst of all? We stop trusting ourselves.
When you tie your self-worth to others’ opinions, you hand them the keys to your confidence.
You let their judgment define your value.
It’s a fragile way to live.
Break Free from the Validation Trap
Validate Yourself First
Ask: “What do I think of my work?” Your opinion is the one that matters.Focus on the Process, Not the Praise
Enjoy the act of creating, building, or learning. Let the journey fulfill you.Detach from Outcomes
Success and failure are temporary. Neither defines your worth.Surround Yourself with Builders, Not Judges
Choose people who lift you up and challenge you to grow, not those who keep score.
Your worth isn’t tied to likes, comments, or applause.
It’s built from within.
Your brilliance doesn’t need permission to shine.