I’m putting my desire for approval in top of everything else to drive my life. How can I stop longing for this approval ?

Dear friend, I hear your struggle with placing your desire for approval above all else in your life. It is a common challenge many of us face, seeking validation and acceptance from others as a source of happiness and fulfillment. From a Buddhist perspective, this craving for approval stems from our attachment to external validation, which can lead to suffering as it is impermanent and conditional. It is essential to recognize that true inner peace and contentment come from within, not from the approval of others. Your worth and value are inherent, regardless of external validation. From a psychological viewpoint, the longing for approval can be rooted in experiences from the past that have shaped your beliefs about yourself and your need for external validation. It is crucial to explore these underlying beliefs and patterns that drive your behavior. By understanding the source of your desire for approval, you can begin to challenge these beliefs and develop a healthier sense of self-worth that is not dependent on external validation. As a coach, I encourage you to start cultivating self-compassion and self-acceptance. Practice mindfulness to observe your thoughts and emotions without judgment, allowing yourself to acknowledge and release the need for approval. Focus on developing a strong sense of self-awareness and self-love, recognizing your intrinsic value regardless of external validation. Set boundaries with others to prioritize your own well-being and needs, rather than seeking approval at the expense of your authenticity. Remember, true happiness comes from within, from embracing your true self with kindness and compassion.