When I Validated Myself

March 25, 2025

When I was younger, every time I finished a drawing, I would rush to show my family. Their reactions were always over the top—full of excitement and praise. It felt good, like I had done something truly special.

But over time, their responses became more routine. Instead of the enthusiasm I was used to, I started hearing quick, casual responses: "Oh, nice." That was when it hit me—I needed to stop seeking reactions and just create for myself.

I think about those early days, drawing picture after picture, long before social media existed. There was no one to post them for, no audience to impress. I would finish a piece, look at it in awe, and simply add it to my personal collection. It was pure. I drew because I loved it, not because I was waiting for someone to tell me it was good.

Now, when I post and create, my only real question is: Do I think it’s dope? Because if I like it, someone else will too. And even if only one person connects with it, chances are, five others will, and so on. But that’s secondary. The real win is that I don’t need approval from anyone for what I do.

Self-validation freed me from the pressure of chasing approval. I wake up, thank God, ask Him to order my steps, and then I move—creating, expressing, living. No permission needed.

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