Colin Gautrey

  • Colin
  • The Blog
  • Courses
  • Subscribe
  • Log In

The Gautrey Influence Blog: Inspiring Action and Success Since 2008

The Cost of External Validation

January 5, 2024 by Colin Gautrey

In today’s society, we’re persistently nudged towards seeking validation. From the workplace to social events, the longing for approval is omnipresent.
But what’s the real toll of such a desire? Surrendering to external judgements hinders our independence in career moves and personal evolution. Decisions influenced by others, marred by their own prejudices, can easily misguide our distinct path.
For senior professionals, channelling energy away from self-development to appease others diminishes genuine leadership.
Recognising the depth of this sacrifice is essential. It’s high time leaders reclaimed their agency, appreciating their distinct insights, and understanding that self-validation outshines transient external praise.

Read: Become Your Own Judge and Jury  (one of the Extraordinary Lessons in Influence)

 

 


The Gautrey Influence Blog

Ever felt overlooked, unheard, or stuck in office politics? You’re not alone. The Gautrey Influence Blog breaks down the real-world strategies behind leadership, influence, and power—giving you the tools to be heard, respected, and successful. Join 35,000+ professionals getting ahead the smart way—subscribe now..

💡 Benchmark your Influence: Take the Master of Influence Assessment (Free for Subscribers!)

👉 [Subscribe & Take the Assessment]


Filed Under: Insights

Terms and Conditions

ALL CONTENT PROVIDED ON THIS SITE IS FOR GENERAL INFORMATION ONLY. YOU REMAIN FULLY RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY ACTION YOU TAKE.

View Terms and Conditions

Footprint

We help professionals in organisations such as:

Accenture | AXA | Bank of America | Barclays | Citigroup | Clifford Chance | Credit Suisse | EDF | Ernst & Young | Fiat Chrysler | Fujitsu | GE | Goldman Sachs | GSK | IBM | Lloyds Bank | NHS | O2 | Orange | Pfizer | SAP | Shell | Tesco | UBS | Unilever | Zurich

Search

© Copyright 2025 The Gautrey Group · All Rights Reserved.