Validation

Validation is the skill of being emotionally present with another person, of dropping self and experiencing the emotions of another person for a time, to accurately see and understand and empathize with them. Validation is spiritual medicine; it is salve on spiritual wounds. When the person receives it, they feel heard, seen and understood. Validation is spiritual and emotional air for our souls. We all need validation. We need to give it, and we need to receive it.

Validating someone does not mean you agree with their choices, behaviors or perceptions. It merely means that you understand how they got to where they are in their life. It means you clearly communicate how deeply you feel for them and understand them. You offer compassion for their pain. When an individual feels heard, seen and safe, they can then open up emotionally and spiritually and begin to heal their hurts.