DON'T SEEK VALIDATION, YOU'RE NOT A PARKING TICKET

Have you ever taken that perfect selfie with just the right lighting, or the perfect picture of the most beautiful sunset, or catch an epic moment right at the perfect time…? Then you post it on Facebook/Instagram/Twitter like “that pic was fire!” You wait about 5 minutes and then go check to see how many likes you got… and to your dismay, it’s not as many as you thought, and you’re like “okay let me give it another 10 minutes…” then you check again… 11 LIKES!? That’s it?! This picture was FIRE what is wrong with you people!?  This may not be your struggle, but I am speaking from experience. I’m totally guilty and I know a lot of you are too.  This generation is so obsessed with the amount of likes and follows we get on social media; the desire to get people to like us motivates the majority of our choices and actions.  We master the art of telling people what they want to hear and being someone they would find impressive, all the while worrying constantly about what others think, fearing criticism and holding ourselves back as a result.  This need for approval and validation is a complete waste of time because it holds us back from being unstoppable, and kills our freedom of being true to who we are.

Here's my question for you: If you were the only person (in a room FULL of people) that believed what you believed, would you still believe it? 

Sadly, most people wouldn’t. It’s human nature to follow the crowd, go with the flow, stay comfortable, seek approval from others, and be mediocre.   But the one that is willing to stand alone, the one that is willing to do what no one else wants to do, that is the one who will be victorious.  When that time comes; when you’re the only person that says yes to your goals and dreams while everyone else is saying no… It is SO important that your goals and dreams be in line with your core values and the things you believe in. 

What are your core values? What are the things that really matter to you deep down inside; those things that you don’t question and you’ve removed all doubt when it comes to them.  When you are clear on your standing principles, they will hold you up and allow you to keep standing when everyone else doesn’t believe.

I encourage you to strengthen your core foundation so that you feel a place where you make decisions based on what is right for you and not for the approval of others. A place where you make effective choices with your time, are OKAY with saying no when it is required, and are faithful to doing that which is significant and valuable for what you want to achieve or create in your life.  Practice letting go of seeking validation for whom you choose to be. 

I will leave you with powerful words by Steve Maraboli,

There is nothing more rare, nor more beautiful, than being unapologetically yourself; comfortable in you perfect imperfection. To me, that is the true essence of beauty.

You are fearfully and wonderfully made.

Blessings and love,

Marti Reed