I’m putting my desire for approval in top of everything else to drive my life. How can I stop longing for this approval ? How can I develop self-awareness and self-love ?

I hear you, dear friend, as you navigate the challenging journey of seeking approval from others and placing it above everything else in your life. It's understandable how deeply ingrained this desire can become, shaping our actions, thoughts, and emotions. From a Buddhist perspective, this craving for approval stems from our attachment to external validation, which ultimately leads to suffering. It's crucial to recognize that true happiness and contentment come from within, not from external sources. Your longing for approval may be rooted in a belief that you are not enough as you are, but remember, you are inherently whole and complete just as you are in this present moment. From a psychological viewpoint, this pattern of seeking approval often develops from past experiences or conditioning that have influenced your self-worth and self-esteem. Developing self-awareness is key to understanding the underlying reasons behind your desire for approval. By practicing mindfulness and self-reflection, you can observe your thoughts and emotions without judgment, gaining insight into the patterns that drive your behavior. Cultivating self-love involves treating yourself with the same kindness and compassion that you would offer to a dear friend. Recognize your worthiness and embrace your imperfections as part of what makes you uniquely beautiful. Moving forward, I encourage you to start incorporating self-love practices into your daily routine. Begin by setting aside time for self-care activities that nurture your mind, body, and spirit. Engage in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment, independent of external validation. Challenge negative self-talk by replacing it with affirmations of self-love and acceptance. Surround yourself with supportive and uplifting individuals who appreciate you for who you are, rather than what you do. Remember, your worth is not dependent on the approval of others; it comes from embracing your authenticity and inherent value. Trust in your journey of self-discovery and self-love, knowing that you are deserving of all the love and approval you seek, starting from within.