Episode 268

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Published on:

22nd Apr 2025

Chasing Shadows: Why Outside Approval Never Fills You

Chasing Shadows: Why Outside Approval Never Fills You

Ever nail that promotion, graduation, or win that award you thought would finally make you feel... satisfied? And then... crickets? You're not alone.

Welcome to Thriving Man, where we help you conquer the everyday chaos and build a truly thriving life. In this eye-opening episode, David Maxwell dives deep into why chasing external validation – the approval, praise, and achievements recognized by others – will always leave you feeling empty.

We dissect the fleeting highs of milestones like graduations, job promotions, and bonuses, revealing why these "wins" often feel underwhelming despite our expectations. We'll expose the vicious cycle of insecurity that living for external validation creates, turning you into a servant of others' opinions instead of the master of your own life.

Think external validation lasts? We'll look at how quickly society forgets yesterday's heroes and viral sensations, highlighting the short-lived nature of these external "wins." We'll also explore the dangerous power dynamic that emerges when you rely on others for your sense of worth, leaving you vulnerable to manipulation and scams.

From classic movie tropes of characters losing everything in their quest for external approval to the ever-shifting sands of societal "must-haves" and even nutritional advice, we'll illustrate how easily external forces can control us if we haven't cultivated a strong inner life.

Ready to break free from chasing shadows?

This episode will help you understand:

  • Why external achievements often fail to bring lasting contentment.
  • The short lifespan of external validation and why it needs constant chasing.
  • How relying on others' opinions can strip you of your autonomy.
  • The vulnerability that comes with seeking constant outside approval.
  • Why developing your inner compass is crucial for true fulfillment.

Take control of your life and discover where true contentment really lies.

Ask yourself today: "Who am I really living for?" and "What am I truly living for?"

Ready to build a thriving life from the inside out? Visit us at www.thrivingman.com to explore our courses designed to help you grow in the four fundamental areas of every man: Spiritual, Physical, Mental, and Emotional.

External validation, Seeking approval, Need for validation, Insecurity, Self-worth, Inner contentment, Happiness, Fulfillment, Living for others, People pleasing, Why am I never satisfied?, Why does achievement feel empty?, How to find inner peace?, How to be happy with yourself?

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About the Podcast

The Thriving Man Podcast
Helping Men Live a Life They can be Proud of!
Many guys get trapped in focusing on one area of their life at the expense of everything else. It could be their physical health, their career, a sport, or even a hobby. The problem is this: A Truly Successful Life isn't one-dimensional! That is why there are miserable millionaires. Who cares how much money you have if, for example, you have no one you can call a true friend?
There has to be a better approach than this.
The Thriving Man Podcast helps men grow in the 4 fundamentals of their life: Emotional, Mental, Physical, & Spiritual. We help men see that "Success is Inside Out and On the Way!"

About your host

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David and Reese Maxwell

Over 40 Years Of Combined Mentoring Experience
David and Reese Maxwell are a father and son duo with a passion to help men live the best life possible.