Emotional Validation — Whose Approval Really Matters?

Why understanding my emotions — and those of others — is the key to healthier relationships and a stronger sense of self.

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Have you ever felt like your emotions didn’t matter to someone — or that you needed to “justify” how you felt? Emotional validation isn’t about agreeing with others or even yourself. It’s about honoring the emotional truth in the moment. I tried to understand what emotional validation really means and how practicing it can transform my connection with others and with yourself.

What Is Emotional Validation?

Many times in life, we’re challenged to understand another person’s emotions or experiences — especially when they don’t align with our own beliefs or feelings. On the flip side, we often feel misunderstood too — like others just don’t get our fears, desires, or inner world.

Yet, understanding and accepting both our own emotions and those of others is crucial — not just for building strong relationships, but also for having a healthy connection with ourselves. That’s where learning about emotional validation can truly help.

Why Is Emotional Validation Important?

“Understanding is the first step to acceptance, and only with acceptance can there be recovery.”
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