Why is It Important to Acknowledge Someone’s Feelings?

Disclaimer: The materials and information contained herein are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical, psychological, or mental health advice or diagnosis and may not be used for such purposes. You should always consult with a qualified physician or mental health professional about your specific circumstances.

Acknowledging other people’s feelings has such a powerful impact. It shows that we value them as human beings and that we are willing to take the time to understand their perspective. 

Caring about others’ feelings is the oil of life – it has the power to make the world a better, more compassionate place. This can lead to stronger, more meaningful relationships, as well as increased happiness and satisfaction in our own lives. 

What is acknowledging others’ feelings?

Acknowledging others’ feelings is an act of emotional validation.

When we talk about acknowledging others’ feelings, we mean the act of recognizing and understanding the emotions of someone.

Emotional validation is acknowledging and accepting a person's inner experience, thoughts, feelings, and behaviors as valid. 
Galen, G. Validation: Making sense of the emotional turmoil in borderline personality disorder. McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School.

When we validate we’re not judging whether a person is right or wrong. So if you want to validate someone’s feelings, start by listening without prejudice.

This can involve paying attention to nonverbal cues, such as body language and facial expressions, and using language that reflects back the other person’s emotions. 

How do we validate others’ feelings?

Whether it’s done towards a child, a partner, or a friend. It’s as simple as communicating the idea of: “I get it”, “it’s normal” and “it’s ok”.

“It’s ok, I would feel like that too.”

“I understand why you’re feeling like that.”

“It’s ok to feel embarrassed.”

“I know it might feel very uncomfortable inside, I have felt that before.”

“Oh, something like that happened to me before, I totally understand how that feels.”

Here’s a short video to learn more:

Why is it important to acknowledge others’ feelings?

Emotional validation is the easiest way to make someone feel heard and understood.

It can make others feel enveloped in a hug, we can feel understood and respected as if all of our worries and stress are all cast away…

It is one of the most magical feelings to have someone truly listen and understand you, and it can help to strengthen and deepen your relationships with others.

When we feel understood, we can feel more connected and supported, as if we are floating on a cloud of love and understanding.

Acknowledging others’ feelings is the cornerstone in all relationships

Overall, acknowledging others’ feelings can have many benefits for both yourself and others. It can lead to stronger, more meaningful relationships and improved communication and problem-solving skills.

When we take the time to truly listen and acknowledge the emotions of those around us, we open the door to better communication and understanding. It shows that we care and that their thoughts and feelings matter.

Let’s look at some of the benefits of acknowledging others’ feelings:

Builds trust and strengthens relationships

When we acknowledge the feelings of others, we are demonstrating that we are truly listening to them and trying to understand their perspective. This can build trust and strengthen our relationships, as it shows that we value and respect the other person.

Leads to stronger connections

By validating others, we build trust and empathy, creating an atmosphere of compassion and respect. When people feel heard, they are more likely to let down their guard and be their authentic selves. This leads to stronger, more meaningful connections and a greater sense of belonging.

Shows empathy

Acknowledging others’ feelings can help us to better understand and empathize with them. 

By paying attention to their emotions and attempting to see things from their perspective, we can develop a deeper understanding of their thoughts and feelings. 

Reduces conflict

Validating others’ feelings can also help to diffuse conflicts and decrease defensiveness. When people feel that their emotions are being understood, they are less likely to react in an aggressive or defensive manner. This allows for calm, productive discussions and helps to resolve any issues that may arise.

Supports other’s emotional well-being

validating others’ feelings supports their emotional well-being. It helps to relieve stress, decrease anxiety, and promote a sense of peace and contentment. By lifting up those around us, we not only improve their lives but also create a positive ripple effect that touches everyone in our community.

It’s your call

Validating feelings is the best way to let someone (you care) feel supported, valued, and truly seen. You know that you can be yourself and that your feelings matter. It’s a feeling of deep connection and understanding, and an emotional experience we all deserve. Hopefully, this post has given you some basic ideas to start acknowledging others’ feelings.

FAQs

What is emotional validation?

Emotional validation is about learning, understanding, and expressing acceptance of another person’s feelings. When you take the time to learn and understand how someone feels, it helps them feel like they’re accepted.

Why do people want emotional validation?

People need to feel that their feelings matter and that others truly hear what they’re saying. Emotional validation makes us feel accepted.

What is emotional invalidation?

Emotional invalidation means that a person’s feelings and thoughts are rejected, ignored, or negatively judged. Invalidation is also expressing that the person’s feelings and thoughts are not justified, valid, or understandable.

When validating someone’s feelings, should you always agree with the person’s emotions?

Validating other people’s feelings doesn’t necessarily mean agreeing that their emotional response is appropriate. Rather, it’s about showing that you understand how they feel and that it’s perfectly alright to feel that way