Living Authentically

How to Break Free from Seeking Approval

Are you someone who constantly seeks approval from others? Do you need someone to push or tell you you can do it? If so, you're not alone. Many people struggle with the need for external validation, and it can be a challenging habit to break.

The need for approval can stem from various sources, including childhood experiences, cultural norms, and personal insecurities. In addition, it can manifest in different ways, such as constantly seeking validation from others, people pleasing, or avoiding disapproval at all costs.

While seeking approval can be beneficial in certain situations, such as building relationships or achieving career success, it can also be problematic when it becomes the sole motivator for our actions. If we constantly seek approval from others, we may lose touch with our values, principles, and goals. We may also become overwhelmed, overworked, and unable to refuse others' requests.

In this situation, taking a step back and evaluating why you seek approval is essential. Ask yourself questions like: What do I value? What keeps me awake at night? How do I prefer to spend my time? You can live a more fulfilling and authentic life by listening to what you genuinely want and aligning your actions with your values, principles, and goals.

Here are some tips for breaking the cycle of seeking approval:

First, be honest with yourself: When you take on a new commitment, evaluate whether you are doing it because it's right for you or because you want to gain approval and avoid disapproval.

Set boundaries: Learn to say no when a request doesn't align with your values or goals. Setting boundaries can be challenging, but it's essential for living a more authentic life.

Practice self-care: Make time for yourself and prioritize activities that bring joy and fulfilment. Self-care can help you reconnect with yourself and your values.

Focus on intrinsic motivation: Instead of seeking external validation, focus on intrinsic motivation. Set meaningful goals for yourself and work towards them because they align with your values and principles, not because you want someone else's approval.

Seek support: Breaking the cycle of seeking approval can be challenging, and it's okay to seek support from friends, family, or a therapist.

In conclusion, seeking approval from others can be a challenging habit to break. Still, it's essential for living a more authentic and fulfilling life. By reflecting on your values, setting boundaries, and focusing on intrinsic motivation, you can break the cycle of seeking approval and living a life aligned with your true self.

Understanding and Managing Depression: Symptoms, Causes, and Tips

  

Depression is a common mental health condition that affects millions of people around the world. It is a complex condition that various factors, including genetics, environment, and life events, can cause.

Symptoms of depression can vary from person to person, but some common signs include the following:

• Persistent feelings of      sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness
• Loss of interest in      activities that were once enjoyed
• Changes in appetite or      weight
• Difficulty sleeping or      oversleeping
• Feelings of guilt or      worthlessness
• Difficulty concentrating      or making decisions
• Thoughts of suicide or      self-harm

Managing depression can be challenging, but several strategies may help. Some effective methods include:

• Therapy: Seeing a mental health professional, such as a therapist or counsellor, can help individuals understand their feelings and learn coping strategies.
• Medication: Antidepressant medication can be prescribed by a doctor or psychiatrist to help alleviate symptoms of depression.
• Exercise: Regular physical activity is an effective way to improve mood and decrease symptoms of depression.
• Social support: Talking to friends and loved ones about your feelings can help you feel less alone and more supported.
• Self-care: Engaging in activities that promote well-being, such as getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and practising stress management techniques like mindfulness and yoga, can also help manage depression.

It is important to remember that depression is a treatable condition, and seeking help is an essential step in recovery. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of depression, please reach out to a mental health professional or another trusted source for support.

Also, it is essential to note that depression should not be ignored or stigmatized. It is a severe health condition that requires proper care and is not a sign of weakness or a character flaw. With the proper support and treatment, people with depression can lead fulfilling and happy lives.

Feelings of sadness, hopelessness and a lack of motivation characterize it. I have struggled with depression in my life. It began in my teenage years and has been a comes and goes ever since. At its worst, depression has made it difficult for me to get out of bed in the morning, find pleasure in things I used to enjoy and connect with others. It has also made me feel like I am a burden to those around me and not good enough.

Depression can have a variety of causes in life events. For me, it has been a combination of various factors. The symptoms of depression can vary from person to person. Still, common ones include persistent sadness or hopelessness, loss of interest in activities, changes in appetite and sleep patterns, difficulty concentrating, and thoughts of suicide. People with depression may also experience physical symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, and body aches.

Managing and coping with depression can be challenging, but several strategies can be helpful.

The most important thing is to seek professional help. A therapist or counsellor can help you develop coping strategies and provide support. Medication can also be effective in treating depression. Antidepressant medication can help balance brain chemistry and be used in conjunction with therapy.

Another critical strategy for managing depression is making lifestyle changes. Regular exercise, healthy eating, and getting enough sleep can all help improve mood and energy levels. It is also essential to engage in activities that please you, such as hobbies or spending time with friends and family.

Lastly, it's essential to seek support from loved ones. Talking about your feelings with someone you trust can be incredibly helpful. It's important to remember that depression is not a sign of weakness or a character flaw. It is a reality that can be treated, and being kind and compassionate towards yourself and others is essential.

In conclusion, depression is a severe mental health disorder affecting millions worldwide. It can have a variety of causes, including genetic predisposition, traumatic life events, and changes in brain chemistry. The symptoms of depression can vary from person to person. Still, common ones include persistent sadness or hopelessness, loss of interest in activities, changes in appetite and sleep patterns, difficulty concentrating, and thoughts of suicide.

Managing and coping with depression can be challenging, but several strategies can be helpful. Seeking professional help, making lifestyle changes, engaging in activities that please you, and seeking support from loved ones are all essential steps in managing and coping with depression. Remembering to be kind and compassionate towards yourself and others is vital.