APPROVING meaning and definition

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The Power of Approval: What Does It Really Mean?

In today's world, approval is a term that carries significant weight. Whether it's in the context of personal relationships, professional endeavors, or online interactions, approval can have a profound impact on our emotions and behaviors. But what does approving really mean?

At its core, approving means giving one's stamp of validation or endorsement to something or someone. It's a sign that we've accepted, liked, or agreed with what's being presented, whether it's an idea, a product, or even a person. When we approve of something, we're essentially saying, "Yes, this is good enough for me."

In the digital age, approval has taken on new forms and meanings. Online, approval can manifest as likes, comments, shares, or follows. In social media, it's not uncommon to see people seeking validation through the number of likes they receive on a post or the amount of followers they have. This quest for online approval can lead to a never-ending cycle of self-promotion and comparison with others.

In real-life relationships, approval can be just as crucial. When we feel approved of by our loved ones, friends, or colleagues, it can boost our confidence and sense of belonging. On the other hand, when we're rejected or disapproved of, it can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem.

So, what does approving really mean? In essence, it means that we've given permission for something to be deemed acceptable or worthy. It's a nod of agreement that says, "This is good enough for me." Whether it's in the virtual world or our personal lives, approval can have far-reaching consequences.

The Power Dynamics of Approval

Approval isn't just about giving validation; it's also about receiving it. When we seek approval from others, we're essentially seeking a sense of belonging and acceptance. This quest for approval can be especially strong during childhood and adolescence when social acceptance is critical to our emotional development.

In romantic relationships, approval can take on a new dimension. When one partner seeks approval from the other, it can create an imbalance in the power dynamics. The seeking party may feel like they need to constantly prove themselves to their partner, leading to feelings of anxiety and stress. On the flip side, when both partners approve of each other's choices and decisions, it can foster a deeper sense of trust and respect.

The Consequences of Disapproval

Disapproval, on the other hand, can have significant consequences. When we're rejected or disapproved of, it can lead to feelings of shame, guilt, and inadequacy. This negative feedback loop can even affect our self-perception, causing us to doubt our abilities and worthiness.

In extreme cases, disapproval can also contribute to mental health issues like depression and anxiety. For example, a person who constantly seeks approval from others may feel crushed if they don't receive it, leading to feelings of despair and hopelessness.

Conclusion

Approval is a powerful force that can shape our emotions, behaviors, and relationships. Whether we're seeking validation online or in real-life interactions, the power of approval can have far-reaching consequences. By understanding what approving really means, we can begin to cultivate healthier relationships and a more positive self-image.

Remember, approval isn't just about giving or receiving validation; it's also about embracing our authentic selves. When we approve of ourselves, we're essentially saying, "I'm good enough just the way I am." And that's a powerful message indeed.

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