30 Apr Validation by Hannah Thompson
It’s very easy to be caught up in the busyness of life. Schedules, appointments, work, personal life, the list seems to be endless. Before most realize it, life is being lived on a time stamp, and with that, so can our self-worth. Day-to-day life has a subtle way of making us forget what makes us, us. Everyone gets validation from something. Whether it’s accomplishments, money, appearance, peer approval, being fit, and so on. But what makes a person unique? What gives us value? Is it the most current fashion trends or the new palette of eye shadows Naked has to offer?
In a world that over emphasizes products and appearances, its’ so easy to give in and convince ourselves that we are not worthy or of any value. We are constantly comparing ourselves to our neighbor, trying to “keep up with the Kardashians” of this world. Because of this, we undervalue ourselves because we are always trying to keep up with the newest and the best. But sometimes our best does not measure up to the standards around us, because our best is so much better. Our best is purely, un-apologetically us.
Finding validation in this world will continually and consistently disappoint. WE LIVE IN A WORLD OF SELF-SHAME AND SIN! It is human nature. Romans 12:2 beseech the children of God, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind”. What we choose to set our minds to will ultimately transform the way we think of ourselves as well as the way we process the world around us. When we keep trying to find our value and validation in this world, we will always be discouraged and brought to think less of ourselves. Because this is how we are made to think, there’s always something bigger and better. Christ says we ARE enough. But we constantly question HIS validation, even though He gave us the ultimate stamp of approval by finding us worthy of His love by being sacrificed on the cross. The sooner we can find our value in Christ and quit seeking the approval of this world, then we can find true fulfillment and satisfaction knowing we have the ultimate stamp of approval.
One thing I have had to come to terms with is I have always found my validation in my appearance. I worked very hard for so many years to look my best, but when tragedy struck and I could no longer emotionally turn to exercise as my outlet, the thing I let determine my value and validity was gone. By recognizing this thought process of mine, I am now able to evaluate my true self-worth starting with the many gifts I know God has given me. I challenge everyone to think about and reassess the things we think make us who we are. I challenge everyone to not limit themselves in their daily lives by giving this world the power to grant validation. By developing a good sense of self efficacy, life is limitless.
Hannah is an Exercise Physiologist, BS in Exercise and Kinesiology from GA State University. She loves living life and the random happenstances that go along with it. Hannah wants to live a life encouraging others and living a life that’s more than just about me. God, family, friends, a good bonfire and great conversations are some of the small things that make life great.
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