How to Validate#

Validating Others#

• Actively listen; don’t be dismissive

• Be mindful of non-verbal reactions & cues:

  • Going on phone
  • Sighing
  • Making light of it (e.g. “don’t be stupid” or “you’ll be fine”)
  • Facial expressions
  • Avoiding eye-contact
  • Walking away

• Take them seriously!

• Observe & identify their feelings in the moment; let them lead the conversation

• Ask them how they’re feeling

• Show tolerance

• Reflect feelings back at them without judgement

Validating ourselves#

• Pay attention to your mind & body; actively listen to your own needs

• Recognise & describe emotions without judgement

  • Remember that no emotion or feeling is “good” or “bad”
  • Take yourself seriously!

• Radical acceptance; accept my emotions & reactions wholeheartedly & truthfully

• Show tolerance towards myself

• Stick up for & validate my own values

• Acknowledge that I’m entitled to my emotions, even if other people disagree

  • “it’s normal to feel this way”
  • “my feelings are valid”
  • “I am proud of myself”

You deserve to be proud of yourself, even if other people show disinterest, disappointment or active disgust.