Worklife with Adam Grant The importance of validation with therapist Caroline Fleck
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Feb 18, 2025 
Caroline Fleck, a clinical psychologist at Stanford and author of "Validation," dives into the importance of recognizing and affirming emotions in building stronger relationships. She explores the distinctions between empathetic validation and exaggerated praise, highlighting that sometimes less is more. The conversation also touches on the challenges of oversharing, the need for emotional boundaries, and how social media alters our connection styles. Ultimately, she emphasizes empathy and mindful communication as keys to fostering genuine connections.
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Early Empathetic Experiences
- As a child, Caroline Fleck found herself frequently being confided in by adults, even in sensitive situations.
- One instance involved a friend's mother confessing her husband's infidelity while Fleck was waiting for her friend.
Responding to Vulnerability
- When someone is vulnerable, offer comfort through subtle gestures like touch or a reassuring presence.
- Saying less can be more effective than trying to offer immediate solutions or interpretations.
Validation as Compassion
- Validation involves mindfulness, understanding, and empathy, ultimately fostering acceptance.
- It's about showing you're present, understand the situation, and care about the other person's feelings.
