Validation

A need I've spent too many years trying to wish away is my need for validation. I don't know what my resistence to external forms of corraboration is about. From one perspective, there is wisdom in a good reality check. In another sense, though, it feels like all legitimizing powers belong to others. Like I need permission to proceed.
Perhaps the fallacious permission language arises from where I look for validation not that I look for validation. When I desire validation in someone else's eyes, I am inadvertently accepting their beliefs and values over my own. I give away my power. Diminshed responsibility always undermines dignity. Not good.
If I remain the responsible party, then validating or conflicting evidence is nothing more than valuable data for enhancing my stewardship. I remain in charge and empowered to make my next decision, however difficult, however unusual. Good stuff.