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Have you ever felt like you can't make a decision without checking with everyone else first? Like there's this constant need for validation buzzing in the background of your mind? You're not alone. For many of us, seeking approval from others can feel like an addiction—one we've carried for so long that we've forgotten what it feels like to simply trust ourselves. When Approval Means EverythingApproval addiction sounds scary. It's that uncomfortable feeling when someone doesn't respond to your text right away, or the way your stomach drops when you sense disapproval. You might find yourself constantly scanning faces for reactions, adjusting your words mid-sentence, or feeling physically uncomfortable when you can't read someone's mood. The truth is, some of us have never known life without constantly considering what others think. It becomes so automatic that we lose touch with our own inner compass entirely. Learn more about self esteem and why it matters. Your Gut Knows More Than You ThinkHere's something powerful: your body is constantly giving you information. That gut feeling when something doesn't feel right? That's not always anxiety talking— It could be internal wisdom trying to guide you. Your stomach, your chest, your shoulders—they all hold messages about whether something feels okay or not. Learning to trust these physical sensations again is like reconnecting with an old friend. Its about being able to work out if it is keeping you 'small' or being supportive. Your body knows when you're abandoning yourself to please others. It knows when you're saying yes but mean no. The question is: are you listening? Give me a follow on social media - to see tips on how to do this in small ways Those Lightbulb MomentsOne of the most beautiful things about therapy is those sudden moments of clarity—the lightbulb moments where stuff starts to 'click'. You realise you don't have to abandon yourself to be loved. You discover that you can live your life without needing everyone's stamp of approval. These realizations can be both liberating and totally shit scary. Liberation because suddenly you see that things can change; Terrifying because now you might do things differently. The Stories We Tell OurselvesMany of the stories running in our heads are outdated. They're like old software that once served a purpose but now just slows everything down. "I must be perfect to be loved." "If someone disapproves of me, I'm in danger." "My needs don't matter as much as others'." These beliefs made sense once—maybe they protected you as a child or helped you navigate difficult relationships. But now? They might be keeping you small and disconnected from your authentic self. How Therapy Can HelpTherapy creates a safe space to understand these patterns without judgment. It's where you can:
Get in touch for your free 20 minute introductory call to see how I can help you Your Own Approval Matters MostBreaking free from approval addiction isn't about becoming selfish or uncaring. It's about remembering that your own approval of yourself matters most. It's about trusting that you can handle disapproval from others and that it doesn't define your worth.
You deserve to live a life that feels authentic to you, even if not everyone understands or approves. Your gut feelings are valid. Your needs matter. And you don't need permission from anyone else to honor them. Remember: This journey takes time and compassion. Be patient with yourself as you learn to trust your own voice again. |
AuthorDemi Shakespeare
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