The longing for recognition
Why people seek recognition
Seeking approval has been around for as long as there have been people. Being noticed, comprehended, and valued is our utmost goal. My question is, what gives? Why is acknowledgment not merely a desirable bonus, but frequently an essential requirement for human beings? We need to explore the human mind a bit deeper to get a handle on this.
Childhood is the beginning. In order to feel safe and accepted, children look for validation from their parents. Being told you did a good job on an assignment or got a good grade makes you feel good about yourself. They figure out that getting your name out there usually means getting perks and fun stuff. As a result, it becomes clear at a young age that praising other people makes one feel good about themselves.
This need for validation persists throughout adulthood and manifests itself in many facets of life, including relationships and professional endeavors. A good example of this is the correlation between achievement and public acclaim in the business sector. The general public views public recognition as a sign of success. Employee morale and output can both benefit from a boost to self-esteem that results from genuine expressions of gratitude. But getting your name out there in the business world is about more than just gaining prestige and a paycheck. It is an external manifestation of one's abilities and a reflection of one's talents.
In personal relationships, acknowledgment is just as crucial. Finding a partner who values and acknowledges us is important to us. When two people value and appreciate each other's unique qualities, they are more likely to form a friendship. We look to our families for reassurance that we are valued contributors to society. In this context, acknowledgment serves as a sign of not just belonging, but also love and psychological safety.
There are, however, drawbacks to pursuing fame and fortune. Dependencies can develop when there is an overwhelming need for constant recognition. Trying to please other people at the expense of your own beliefs and values is a common pitfall. Your individuality may be eroded as you become entangled in a pattern of conformity. Further, ignoring your own inner voice in favor of seeking approval from others is a surefire way to bring misery into your life.
People nowadays will go to any lengths to get their names out there, especially with the rise of social media. A"like" or encouraging comment might make you feel good in the here and now, but they won't satisfy your need for real, long-term affirmation.
The need for approval is fundamental to being human and is, thus, an intricate and multi-faceted problem. It can be a catalyst for growth and a roadblock on the way to self-discovery. Finding a constructive means of satisfying this need is difficult; we need to figure out how to seek and receive praise in a way that complements, not
