Chapter 5: The Root Cause

It seems desirable NOT to rely solely on external validation as a measure of self-worth. So, why do we do it? What is the Root Cause of such behavior? Unfortunately, difficult childhood experiences can result in a desire for external confirmation. Such children often grow up to be adults who put themselves last and seek approval from others. Join author Kate Purmal in this audio chapter (Chapter 5) of Composure: The Art of Executive Presence, as she shares some common childhood traumas that can lead to over-reliance on external validation later in life—and how you can become aware of these limited beliefs, so you can change them. As Kate shares, this behavior is common among perfectionists who unnecessarily worry about the quality of their work. But by changing your limiting beliefs, you can learn to recognize and override old patterns that hold you back.