I’d like to make you aware of an award-winning short film called “Validation”.
The story focuses on a man whose job it is to validate parking stubs, but who also offers the shoppers a validation of who they are. The film is not only inspiring but it is also very effective in reminding us of how powerful the simple act of showing an appreciation and understanding of others can be on those around us. Very much along Avatar “I see you” lines.
True, the extent to which a person accepts or recognises that appreciation or praise is largely dependent on the frames / beliefs / values that they have in place around their self image. For some, receiving random compliments is not going to cut any ice, they will be discounted before they can even begin to be acknowledged. For others, it is important to be recognised by peers, friends and family for the value they bring to close relationships but not when validated by others whilst, for a few, the feelings and emotions that come with all interactions are important.
But, as you go about your daily life, how often do you put yourself in another’s shoes, attempting to understand their perception of the world around them and why they may feel the way they do, instead of judging based on how the situation makes you feel? Do you have a mindset that says too much praise leads to an inflated ego or drop in productivity?
On the contrary, it only serves to celebrate the attributes that are uniquely theirs, the things that others notice in them and that they are appreciated for what they contribute to the greater whole.
The greatest message of this film is that this person exists in all of us, that we all have the power to acknowledge others around us; to show others they’re not being overlooked, being judged or discounted. After all, for us to truly have meaningful and rich relationships, we need to recognise the importance of communicating the validation of who others are and how they feel.
So what are you going to do to make a total stranger smile?
