In our journey through life, we often find ourselves measuring success by the good opinions and approval of others. It's a natural inclination as human beings to seek acceptance and belonging in our social circles and society at large. However, this reliance on external validation can limit our options and stifle our true potential. In this article, we'll explore the reasons behind our tendency to judge success this way and the importance of breaking free to march to the beat of our own drum.
The Paradox of Success: Dancing to the Beat of Our Own Drum
The Human Need for Belonging
From the moment we are born, we are wired to seek connection and belonging. Psychologist Abraham Maslow's hierarchy of needs places social belonging just above physiological needs like food and water. This demonstrates the fundamental importance of fitting in and being accepted by our peers.
Throughout our lives, we encounter various social groups, from family and friends to work colleagues and communities. Each of these groups comes with its own set of norms, values, and expectations. To maintain our place within these groups, we often tailor our actions and behaviors to align with their standards, hoping to gain approval and avoid rejection.
The Approval-Seeking Cycle
The quest for external validation often leads us to measure success through the lens of others' opinions. We find ourselves constantly seeking affirmation from those around us – whether it's the praise of a boss, the approval of our parents, or the admiration of our friends. This approval-seeking cycle can be exhausting and emotionally draining, as we become trapped in a never-ending pursuit of validation.
The Limitations of Seeking External Validation
While seeking approval can provide temporary satisfaction, it can also hinder personal growth and limit our options in life. Here are some key limitations of relying on the good opinion of others for measuring success:
Conformity: When we prioritize external validation, we may conform to societal norms and expectations, suppressing our unique qualities and ideas. This conformity can stifle creativity and hinder innovation.
Anxiety and Stress: Constantly seeking approval can lead to anxiety and stress, as we fear the consequences of falling short of others' expectations. This can negatively impact our mental health and overall well-being.
Shallow Fulfillment: External validation often offers shallow fulfillment because it depends on the ever-changing opinions of others. True fulfillment should come from within, rooted in our own values and aspirations.
Missed Opportunities: By adhering too closely to others' expectations, we may miss out on opportunities that don't align with the prescribed path. Our fear of disapproval can keep us from taking risks and pursuing our passions.
Embracing Authenticity and Self-Validation
To break free from the cycle of seeking external validation and embrace authentic success, we must learn to dance to the beat of our own drum. Here are some steps to consider:
Self-Reflection: Take time to reflect on your values, passions, and aspirations. What truly matters to you? What are your unique strengths and talents?
Define Your Own Success: Rather than relying on others' definitions of success, create your own. Set goals that align with your values and ambitions, regardless of external opinions.
Embrace Failure: Don't be afraid to fail or make mistakes. It's through these experiences that we often learn and grow the most. Remember that success is not a straight line, and setbacks are part of the journey.
Cultivate Self-Compassion: Treat yourself with kindness and understanding. Practice self-compassion, and don't be too hard on yourself when things don't go as planned.
Surround Yourself with Supportive People: While it's important to march to your own drum, having a support system of like-minded individuals who encourage your growth can be invaluable.
While the human need for belonging is natural and important, it's essential to strike a balance between seeking external validation and pursuing authentic success. Success should not be solely defined by the good opinions of others but rather by our own values, passions, and aspirations. By breaking free from the approval-seeking cycle and embracing our true selves, we can chart a path that leads to fulfillment, creativity, and a life well-lived, all while dancing to the beat of our own drum.