Do you thrive on compliments or shrug them off? Let’s talk about your need for validation

Loading player...
You know how we all have that one friend who cannot send a text without adding “what do you think?” That is the same friend who triple checks their outfit in the mirror, then in the reflection of the toaster, then again in the car window.
On the other hand, there are people who seem to move through life like they were born with a built-in cheerleading squad in their head.
It makes you wonder. Why do some of us crave validation like it is our daily vitamin, while others can go years without hearing a single “you are doing great” and still thrive?
Maybe it is because you were loved really well growing up, so you learned your worth early and now enjoy compliments as a sweet extra. Or maybe you were not loved enough and every like, every “I am proud of you,” feels like filling a gap you have been carrying since childhood.
Stacey Norman shared her story of having extremely supportive parents. Her father, specifically, made he feel as though she could do everything perfectly.
While J Sbu didn’t share a personal story, he did share words of advice for those struggling with a need for validation.
12 Aug 2025 English South Africa Society & Culture · Personal Journals

Other recent episodes

The East Coast Radio Fugitive was found and JP Jacobs bagged R40 000!

Stacey and J Sbu attempted to call the East Coast Radio Fugitive but someone named JP answered. He located the East Coast Radio Fugitive near an ice-cream store in Florida Road, went up to him and asked the magic question: "Are you the East Coast Radio Fugitive?" He got a…
1 Oct 5 min

The Fugitive's R18 000 Bounty Comes With a Warning: Stop Looking in Toti

The East Coast Radio Fugitive has dropped another clue, and with his bounty now sitting at R18 000, the pressure is on. His latest message? "Open your eyes" and "strike while the iron is hot." He insists he's been telling the truth in his clues all along, even teasing listeners…
30 Sep 5 min

The ECR Fugitive: A magician explains why KZN can't find him

Is the East Coast Radio Fugitive outsmarting an entire province, or are we outsmarting ourselves? Stacey and J Sbu turned to magician and illusionist Mo Magic for answers. Drawing on years of creating illusions and directing attention, Mo explained the crucial role misdirection plays in staying one step ahead of…
30 Sep 5 min