Emmanuel Olalere

“In addition to seeking validation from others, it’s important to learn to validate yourself. We are often our own worst critics, judging ourselves in ways we never would another individual. Practicing self-compassion and learning to validate ourselves is a critical part of developing strong emotional health and happiness.”
― Michael S. Sorensen, I Hear You: The Surprisingly Simple Skill Behind Extraordinary Relationships

“Effective validation has two components: It identifies a specific emotion It offers justification for feeling that emotion”
― Michael S. Sorensen, I Hear You: The Surprisingly Simple Skill Behind Extraordinary Relationships

“When you need validation, ask for it specifically. It’s obviously best to talk with someone who already knows how to validate, but if the person you talk to doesn’t, you can still point them in the right direction. For example, you might say: “Hey I’m feeling stressed right now and need some validation. Can I vent for a minute? I don’t want feedback or any suggestions for fixing it. I’d just like you to hear me out and help me not feel crazy.” I”
― Michael S. Sorensen, I Hear You: The Surprisingly Simple Skill Behind Extraordinary Relationships

“Ignoring, dismissing, or suppressing your emotions doesn’t get rid of them; it buries them. It tucks them away to fester and arise again at a later time. When you recognize and validate your emotions instead, you strip away the judgment—the “I’m bad,” “this is wrong,” or “I shouldn’t” responses—and allow your experiences to flow through you. It helps you quell the inner critic and live a more present and enjoyable life.”
― Michael S. Sorensen, I Hear You: The Surprisingly Simple Skill Behind Extraordinary Relationships